Class 

Book 



V 3F 



A 

SUMMARY VIEW 

OF 

AMERICA: 

COMPRISING A 

DESCRIPTION OF THE FACE OF THE COUNTRY, AND OF 
SEVERAL OF THE PRINCIPAL CITIES ; 

AND 

REMARKS 

ON THE SOCIAL, MORAL AND POLITICAL CHARACTER OF 
THE PEOPLE : 

BEING THE RESULT OF 

OBSERVATIONS AND ENQUIRIES 



A JOURNEY IN THE UNITED STATES. 



BY AN ENGLISHMAN. 

\cu^ c C 



LONDON: 

PRINTED FOR T. CADELL, IN THE STRAND ; AND 
W. BLACKWOOD, EDINBURGH. 



1824. 



G. Woodfall, Printer, 
Angel Court, Skinner Street, London, 



FACE OF THE COUNTRY. 



5 



extends a tract called the German Flatts. Nume- 
rous farm houses having an appearance of great 
comfort, surrounded by land in a middling state 
of cultivation and in sight of lofty hills, make 
this an agreeable part to travel in. 

The lakes in New York are worthy the notice 
of the admirer of nature, for though not encom- 
passed by mountains, and of course not sublime, 
they have beauties by no means despicable. The 
native forest at present occupies the circumjacent 
land, removed here and there however to make 
way for a village with its little church spire, and 
for green pastures where sheep and oxen are seen 
grazing. Where a small stream falls into the lake, 
there is a beautiful opening in the bank exhibit- 
ing trees of various heights and foliage. It was 
a fine day when I made the voyage of Lake 
Cayuga in a steam-packet. Autumn had just 
begun to embrown and redden the forest, giving 
it its most attractive aspect. The cultivated 
patches, refreshed by some recent showers, seem- 
ed in their holiday dress : and who but could re- 
joice in the thought that the whole wilderness 
was likely in a few years to give place to corn 
and pasture ? It was animating to reflect that a 
numerous population will be here settled, and 
that that land where the roaming savage pursued 



6 



FACE OF THE COUNTRY. 



his prey, never advancing one step in civilization, 
will be occupied by an industrious people, culti- 
vating the arts and charities of social life with 
the domestic gratifications and virtues. If a 
copy of my book should chance to reach poste- 
rity, some future inhabitant of this region may 
exult in the realization of my anticipations. 
Near the village of Ithaca at the south end of 
the lake are some fine waterfalls, to which I was 
conducted by an inhabitant with whom I fell in- 
to conversation. A small creek called Fall creek 
has seven of them differing from each other in 
appearance, and all beautiful. In one the de- 
scent is perpendicular, in another the masses of 
rock are so arranged, as to look like a natural 
staircase, over which the water tumbles and 
foams, the dark brown rock showing itself in 
places through the white froth. The rocks on 
each side rise in several parts perpendicularly to 
the height of one hundred and fifty or two hun- 
dred feet : in other parts, the swell is gradual : 
in all, timber is abundant. There are two or 
three tremendous fissures in the hills ; and the 
spectator standing on the brink of one of them, 
if he first surveys the cascade, then directs his 
eyes to the gulf below, and the prodigious rocks 
around, will find in the whole a truly majestic 
scene. Taken separately the parts are beautiful, 



FACE OF THE COUNTRY. 



7 



combined almost awful. To add to the general 
interest, there is a passage between two lofty 
walls, made by digging and blasting the rock to 
form a sluice for the supply of a mill. Few ob- 
jects of the kind are more imposing. Besides 
the cascades in Fall creek, there are several 
others in the neighbourhood of Ithaca, in one of 
which, the water falls into a basin of considerable 
depth, from a height of fifteen or twenty feet. 
A person told me, that he had plunged from the 
ledge of the rock over which it passes into the 
stream, and had been driven by it to the bottom 
of the basin. Being informed that on the other 
side of the lake, there was a fall still more worthy 
of notice than those I had seen, I walked to Tru- 
mansberg, near which village it is situate; and 
richly indeed was I recompensed. A sheet of wa- 
ter about twenty feet wide has an unbroken fall 
of two hundred, appearing before it reaches the 
bottom like mist. The rocks rise around it per- 
pendicularly on every side, and are three hun- 
dred feet high, forming an amphitheatre of pro- 
digious dimensions. I should have liked to view 
this from below ; but I found it w^ould require 
more time to descend to the bottom than I could 
conveniently spare, and my companion was eager 
to return. From above, it was the sublimest and 
most thrilling object I had ever seen. I crept to 



8 



FACE OF THE COUNTRY* 



the brink of the rock, holding by a tree while I 
leaned over, and surveyed it with a degree of 
terror, knowing that if my hand slipped, my eyes 
would be closed for ever ! My companion took 
care to keep at a safe distance. A little above 
the fall, the rock is of romantic appearance from 
the winding channel of the creek. It must in all 
probability have been abraded by the water; but 
unless the stream is larger at times than when I 
saw it, it is difficult to conceive the agency suf- 
ficient. The land west of this is for the greater 
part in the state of nature. Forests of pines, 
hollies, oaks, locusts, and other trees extending 
in every direction so as to give the traveller a 
very limited prospect, are not so agreeable as a 
more open country, from the sameness of the 
views : and in winter when the trees are denuded 
it is dismal indeed travelling here. The only 
relief to the eye is the log-house of the settler 
with his patch of half cleared ground, where the 
black stumps of trees are left to disfigure it ; or 
spots where they are left standing like masses of 
charcoal, having been scathed with fire, or lying 
rotting on the ground overgrown with fungi. 
Even in such a district as this however, the 
cheering view of industry encroaching on the 
domains of desolation, is sufficient to make the 
solitary wanderer proceed with joyous feelings. 



FACE OF THE COUNTRY. 



9 



Having mentioned the log-houses of the set- 
tlers, I may just observe, that though some of 
them are built two stories high, and with some 
regard to comfort, yet that the greater number 
have only one room. They are made of trunks 
of trees notched at the corners to fit into each 
other, the interstices being filled with turf or 
clay. They add as little to the beauty of the 
landscape as the mud-built cottages in some 
parts of Devonshire. The log-house is succeed- 
ed by the frame-house as cultivation advances. 
The latter, though far more comfortable and 
complete, is what every landscape painter fond of 
the picturesque would wish removed from view. 

It may be expected that I should say some- 
thing of Niagara cataract, the most celebrated in 
the world, though inferior in magnitude to the 
Riakan-fossen in Norway; but so many descrip- 
tions of it have been given, as to render it need- 
less to say much. I found I had formed a to- 
lerably correct idea of it ; yet the reality was 
rather below than above my expectation, though 
not so much as is often the case with travellers, 
having learnt by experience to make liberal de- 
ductions from the accounts by tourists of the 
wonders of both art and nature. One reason 
why Niagara so often disappoints expectation is, 



10 



FACE OF THE COUNTRY. 



that its height is not proportionate to the body 
of water. The greatest fall, which is on the 
Canadian side, is estimated at one hundred and 
sixty feet, being less than that of many cataracts 
in Europe and South America. Taking this 
into consideration, and the circumstance that 
the surrounding land is level and of uninviting 
aspect, it is not surprising that those whose 
imaginations are active, should find Niagara in- 
ferior in interest to their preconceived ideas. 
But if the first view disappoints, the second gene- 
rally gratifies, there being nothing to abate the 
interest. A wide, deep river precipitated one 
hundred and sixty feet is in itself magnificent ; 
and when the turmoil and ebullition produced 
by it in the gulf below are considered, and the 
mist rising in a cloud higher than the upper 
banks of the river, it will be readily supposed 
that its impression on the mind is one of the 
most awful of all nature's stupendous works. 
The rainbow formed by the mist gives a variety 
to the whole, though I think it rather detracts 
from the sublimity. In some situations it ap- 
pears with its outer circle to the earth, an ap- 
pearance very striking to those who have never 
witnessed the like. Goat Island which is in the 
middle of the river, and separates it 50 as to oc- 
casion two falls, is accessible by a bridge from 



FACE OF THE COUNTRY. 



11 



the New York side. From this island is obtain- 
ed one of the finest views of the cataract, as well 
as of the rapids above ; and the latter being re- 
garded by many as of nearly equal interest, the 
island has many visiters. I found a solitary fa- 
mily living here in a log-house ; and on going in 
to ask them a few questions, I was surprised to 
find they were English, the man being a Lanca- 
shire weaver ! How agreeable was it to me to 
find those of my own country in such a situation ! 
And when I told them of my being an English- 
man, they were pleased too. It may be supposed 
that a situation like theirs cannot be comfort- 
able from the stunning, thundering noise of 
which Goldsmith makes mention, especially 
when we consider, that it is heard according to 
travellers at forty miles distance. On this point 
however very erroneous opinions prevail. Con- 
versation is as easily supported within a few yards 
of the cataract as in the most silent spot. When 
the wind is adverse it cannot be heard two miles 
off. Before concluding, let me add as matter of 
curiosity, that a deer was drawn clown some time 
since, and when taken up was found to be not 
quite dead, though so far gone that means failed 
to restore it. It survived but a short time. A 
cat which was thrown over, soon found its way 
home again. Several human beings have been 



12 



FACE OF THE COUNTRY. 



drawn into the rapids, and have also been pre- 
cipitated into the dreadful abyss \ but no one so 
far as is known has ever survived : yet if a strong 
man, being a good swimmer, could reach the 
edge without encountering the rapids, I think 
it is barely possible that he might save his life. 

It being in the winter when I travelled in New 
England, it cannot be supposed that I should 
have much to remark on its scenery. I noticed 
that more land is under cultivation than in the 
parts of New York I had passed through, and 
much more neatness in the farms and farm- 
houses. In Connecticut, stone fences have over 
a large space superseded wooden ones, and are 
I think superior to them except where the latter 
are formed like good hurdles. Hawthorn hedges 
are seldom seen, and do not thrive well, It is 
a little remarkable that the American farmers 
do not plant hazel hedges, which are strong and 
will thrive on a variety of soils, besides having 
the additional recommendation of being orna- 
mental, as those who have travelled in South 
Wales can testify, In Delaware I noticed some 
lofty hedges of a sort of privet, which are as beau- 
tiful as almost any hedges I ever saw. In Vir- 
ginia they have cypress hedges, which are pleas- 
ing to the eye in comparison with the zigzag 



FACE OF THE COUNTRY. 



IS 



wooden fences, though inferior to those of thorn 
or hazel. 

In Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, there are 
the most extensive views of cultivated nature I 
saw in the United States ; and though the pas- 
tures are browner than those of our humid cli- 
mate, the general aspect of the country is bright 
and enlivening. The groves of fine trees are 
here as great an addition to the beauty of the 
prospect as can be well imagined. And then 
there is such apparent comfort in the substantial 
well-built farm-houses, that it is quite delightful. 
Even the barns and out-houses are large and 
weather-proof, a general characteristic of Penn- 
sylvania : but on entering Maryland how great 
is the change ! the farm-houses slovenly, the out- 
buildings of rude structure, and the negro huts 
no better than pig-sties : these were what struck 
my attention in Maryland. The land too is as 
barren and dismal looking as is perhaps to be 
found in the United States, though I after- 
wards found that some parts of that State are 
pre-eminently beautiful, particularly around the 
town of Frederick. The land there is so rich 
that I gazed with a sort of rapturous feeling. I 
proceeded from Frederick to Harper's Ferry in 
Virginia, a place worthy of notice on two ac- 



14 



FACE OF THE COUNTRY. 



counts ; one, its picturesque situation, the other, 
the extravagant eulogium bestowed on it by 
Jefferson in his Notes on Virginia; a book which 
shows the enthusiasm of the author, as well as 
his bigotry and narrow mindedness. After an 
animated description of Harper's Ferry, he con- 
cludes by observing that it is worth a voyage 
across the Atlantic to see it. The scenery is un- 
questionably fine. The steep, rugged hills be- 
tween which the water runs or rather dashes, are 
adorned with trees, and when surveyed from 
their summit at noon day, appear with what 
Pope calls "a flood of glory"; but the European, 
without crossing the Atlantic, may survey many 
spots of superior interest. And this leads me to 
mention the Natural Bridge, which Jefferson 
characterizes in as high terms as Harper's Ferry. 
As a natural curiosity it deserves attention and 
may excite wonder. It spans the creek at an 
altitude of one hundred and eighty feet, the rocks 
on each side rising perpendicularly ; and has all 
the security and utility of the most laboured ma- 
sonry. The road over it is between two rows of 
trees, which it is to be hoped will not be re- 
moved: for though houses on a bridge are a 
deformity, the same cannot be said of trees on a 
bridge like this. 



FACE OF THE COUNTRY. 



15 



Another of the natural curiosities mentioned 
by Jefferson is Madison's Cave, which is now 
however seldom visited, as a larger and more in- 
teresting one named Weir's Cave has been dis- 
covered near it. I explored every part of this 
in company with three young men. It is so spa- 
cious and has so many recesses that we were three 
hours in viewing it. The stalactites being in- 
crusted with a lutarious substance, are of course 
less beautiful, than those which are described as 
being in the grotto of Antiparos brilliant as dia- 
monds. Such however is their variety in shape, 
that tables, thrones, bridges, candelabras, toi- 
lettes, and twenty other things, present them- 
selves to the eye of fancy. Many of these are 
named after public characters ; others accord- 
ing to their resemblance to particular objects. 
In some parts we had to stoop very low to pass 
along ; in others, the roof rose to the height of 
I suppose one hundred feet. Here the sides were 
straight as a brick wall, there irregular and fan- 
tastic as the cliffs in the Isle of Wight. We came 
in one spot to a spring of clear water which we 
were requested to taste, it being conformable to 
rule to pay this respect to the genius of the place. 
What nymph has fixed on this for her palace I 
was not informed, but she has manifested as much 
taste as the Empress Anne in her palace of ice. 



16 



FACE OF THE COUNTRY. 



In the eastern parts of Virginia, the country 
is flat, very poorly cultivated, and as unattractive 
as the fens of Cambridgeshire. The better parts, 
where the planters have made cypress hedges, 
reminded me of Suffolk -> but the negro huts 
where nothing like comfort is to be seen, cause 
one to turn away disgusted. In the central parts 
of the State, the ridges of mountains forming 
part of the Alleghany, give a diversified aspect 
to the land. From the top of one of the moun- 
tains of the Blue ridge I had a very extensive 
and grand prospect. Owing to taking a wrong 
turn in going through a wood at its foot, I devi- 
ated widely from the track, and climbed by a 
difficult and laborious ascent to the summit, a 
thing which I minded but little, as I found my- 
self on much higher ground than if I had kept to 
the road. On one side, hill beyond hill stretched 
to the horizon, in appearance like the ocean, blue 
and undulated. On the other I looked into the 
valley I had left, where I perceived a village at 
about six miles distant with a slip of cleared land 
around it, the forest extending in every other di- 
rection, broken here and there by a few small 
patches of cleared ground near the houses of 
some poor people. A stream winding through 
the valley was perceptible in places, offering a 
bright contrast to the gloomy forest. On one part 



FACE OP THE COUNTRY. 17 

of the mountain, I observed enormous masses 
of rock piled irregularly on each other, as if some 
subterraneous eruption had taken place there. 
From the spot where I stood, I had to make my 
way by a circuitous route to the high road. This 
I accomplished just before sunset, having been 
engaged nearly the whole day in traversing the 
mountain, tasting nothing and seeing no fellow 
being. I had yet six miles to walk to reach a 
house of shelter for the night, and pushing for- 
ward with vigour, I had not long to walk in the 
dark. Mountainous scenery is beheld to most ad- 
vantage by twilight, indistinctness contributing 
to its majesty. Never before was I so struck 
with it, the total silence adding to the whole a 
sort of religious reverence. Just as I gained the 
farm-house where I requested and obtained a 
lodging, the moon rose from behind the moun- 
tain giving a new and more lovely aspect to both 
mountain and valley, and enabling me to see it 
in its various hues of blue, brown, yellow, and 
white. The valley into which I had now en- 
tered was uncultivated to a great extent, and 
destitute of beauty. I made my way to Char- 
lottesville where fine scenery again claims the 
notice of the traveller. But it seems unneces- 
sary to say more in illustration of American sce- 
nery, except in a few general particulars. 

c 



18 



FACE OF THE COUNTRY. 



In no part is cultivation so finished as to ex- 
hibit all the charms of which it is susceptible ; 
hence, where nature has not been liberal, travel- 
ling, as far as external appearances contribute to 
enjoyment, is little interesting, especially, as 
there are no large houses of tasteful architecture 
surrounded by lawns and woods of regular for- 
mation. Ornamental gardening is seldom seen ; 
picturesque gardening totally unknown. It may 
have been these things which led an American 
author to say of his country, that it is the land 
of dull realities. The pleasure I experienced in 
surveying many different spots where grandeur 
reigns triumphant, and in tracing the minute 
beauties of others, as the banks of the Brandy- 
wine and Schuylkill, which though different from 
each other are both rich in attractions, forbid 
my concurring in this remark. The proportion 
of land incapable of being made arable is small, 
consequently absolute barrenness seldom dis- 
pleases the eye. Even in swampy ground all is 
not desolate. The Dismal Swamp in Virginia 
and North Carolina is covered with juniper and 
cedar trees. And on the whole it may be said, 
that if art has done comparatively little in im- 
proving nature, nature in many instances is on 
a scale so large as to need scarcely any of her 
assistance. I ought not here to omit mentioning 



FACE OF THE COUNTRY. 19 

that the sun sets in America with a radiance so 
surpassing, that it filled me with wonder and de- 
light. How often have I stopped in my evening 
rambles to feast my eyes with the glorious pros- 
pect ! The sky seemed in flame, as bright as an 
iron furnace when the liquid metal flows from it 
into the moulds. 

In my walks through the country, especially 
when traversing the native forest, I was forcibly 
struck with the general silence of nature. How 
little was there to please compared with the 
melody of our groves ! Frequently, nothing was 
to be heard but the woodpecker striking his bill 
against a tree. At other times I heard a chorus 
of frogs chirping rather than croaking. In the 
evening, I have stopped to listen to the plaintive 
but tiresome note of the whipperwill, a bird, 
named like the cuckow from its unvarying voice. 
But the lark springing upward to the sky, and 
making every thing resound with its lively, in- 
spiriting strain ; or the blackbird with its clear 
whistle ; or the nightingale with its full, rich, 
voluptuous swell and fall ; — these are not to be 
heard in America, to say nothing of the linnet, 
the thrush, or the whole tribe of finches. They 
have indeed birds called by these names, but 
they are quite different from ours. Some how- 

c 2 



20 



FACE OF THE COUNTRY. 



ever they have of very pleasant song, which may 
be heard at daybreak, and for an hour or two 
after. I cannot speak of the mocking-bird, for 
I was not fortunate enough to hear it ; but I 
heard several whose names I have forgotten, 
which made the woods vocal in an enchanting 
manner. But no sooner does the sun gain con- 
siderable power, than a silence like the grave 
supervenes, except in the ponds and bogs, where 
the frogs and toads have fixed their abode. In 
many parts you may listen in vain to hear any 
sound at all. In the words of Dr. Young, 

" Listening ear no object finds ; 
Creation sleeps. 'Tis as the general pulse 
Of life stood still, and nature made a pause ; 
,An awful pause ! prophetic of her end." 



CHAPTER II. 

CITIES, TOWNS, AND VILLAGES. 

As the place where I first landed in America 
was New York, I shall begin by giving some ac- 
count of that city. Standing like Constanti- 
nople on a point of land, it is nearly encom- 
passed by water, and appears at a little distance 
as if afloat. Ships of the largest burden can 
approach it at all times of the year, and obtain 
secure anchorage in its harbour. It unites the 
advantages of a port on the sea-board, with those 
of a port like London or Hamburg, without the 
delays incident to a long river navigation. So 
important is this felt to be, that it is common 
for persons from Baltimore, Philadelphia, Mont- 
real and Quebec to come to New York to take 
ship for Europe. That fine river the Hudson, 
after running longitudinally for upwards of three 
hundred miles, empties itself into New York bay. 
By means of canals now in progress, the city 
will soon be able to transport its merchandise 
into the western regions as well as the northern. 
Lakes Erie, Ontario, and Champlain will directly 
communicate with it, and contribute to its pros- 



22 CITIES, TOWNS, AND VILLAGES. 



perity. On the whole continent of North Ame- 
rica, New Orleans is the only one rivalling it in 
commercial advantages; and from the insalu- 
brity of its climate, that city will not probably, 
for centuries to come, equal New York in popu- 
lation, enterprise, and capital. New York, like 
Liverpool, Petersburg, and Calcutta, has risen 
into eminence in a comparatively short period. 
It is still increasing in magnitude and import- 
ance, and will continue to do so for a long time 
to come ; but the idea which the Americans en- 
tertain, that in another century it will equal 
London needs only to be mentioned to show its 
absurdity ; yet this idea is not confined to the 
vulgar; a gentleman, formerly a member of con- 
gress, and of high reputation for talents and 
learning, gravely insisted when in conversation 
with me on its probability ! The reader will pro- 
bably commend my judgment for not attempting 
to argue the point with him : it seemed to be so 
much a favourite with him, that his happiness 
might have been diminished by breaking the 
illusion. 

New York viewed from a distance at which 
the eye can take in its full length, from Hobo- 
ken for instance, or the heights of Brooklyn, has 
the air of a metropolis. The long line of ship- 
ping before the wharfs, the numerous lofty 



CITIES, TOWNS, AND VILLAGES. 



23 



spires and turrets, the steam-boats incessantly 
moving ; all these manifest it to be a place of 
vast importance. A walk through it, however, 
dissipates much of the idea of grandeur excited 
by a distant view. With the exception of Broad- 
way, Hudson Street, and Greenwich Street, 
there are few streets deserving particular notice. 
Most of the steeples are of wood, appearing 
mean to those accustomed to the sight of stone 
ones. Of the public buildings, the City Hall 
and St. Paul's church, are the only two of taste- 
ful architecture. The Catholic cathedral is 
large but not beautiful. There is no exchange 
for the merchants, and the shops are less splendid 
than the size of the city would lead one to ex- 
pect. But when the feelings of disappointment 
have subsided, and the pedestrian know T s what 
to regard, he may find enough to gratify. Broad- 
way extends the whole length of the city, di- 
viding it into two nearly equal parts. It is wide, 
and in several parts planted with trees. The 
houses are built of red brick, and are lofty and 
spacious. Several churches are placed in it, 
and others are within view ; and the City Hall, 
an elegant marble structure on a stone base- 
ment, with an open space before it surrounded 
by iron railing, breaks the uniformity of the 
ranges of houses, and adds to the general beauty. 



Q4f CITIES, TOWNS, AND VILLAGES. 

The Battery-walk at its lower extremity over- 
looking the bay, is an agreeable promenade. 
Hudson and Greenwich Streets are handsome, 
though of the latter, part only is entitled to that 
epithet. The markets are commodious and well 
supplied. The upper part of the city consists 
principally of wooden houses, the further erec- 
tion of which ought to be prohibited, on account 
of their danger, especially as other building ma- 
terials are abundant. 

The streets are not so cleanly swept as they 
should be ; the reason for which is, that it is left 
to each housekeeper to sweep before his own 
door, instead of sweepers being appointed by the 
corporation. Pigs are suffered to run at large, 
a thing of which many of the inhabitants are 
ashamed, but which the greater part contend 
for as contributory to the healthiness of the city! 
The animal and vegetable matter thrown into 
the streets would, it is contended, putrify and 
taint the air, were it not for the pigs. But what 
a beastly idea is it, that the people are so lazy 
or dirty, as to use pigs for scavengers ! The 
corporation have, however, issued ordinances 
against this nuisance. Why, then, it may be 
inquired, is it suffered to .remain ? I reply, be- 
cause the enforcement of the ordinances would 



CITIES, TOWNS, AND VILLAGES, %5 

endanger the popularity of the members of the 
corporation, and the security of their seats. No 
city in America is, I suppose, under more mob 
influence than New York. Pigs ought not to 
be allowed to be kept even in a yard within the 
boundary of a city. Private gain must yield to 
the public good ; and what can more conduce 
to the general comfort than the removal, as far 
as practicable, of all those unpleasant smells 
which render the atmosphere of cities unwhole- 
some ? The prohibition to keep pigs in London 
and Bristol is approved by the inhabitants at 
large. 

Boston is built on a peninsula, which it al- 
most entirely covers, and extends along the isth- 
mus to the main land. It has a fine harbour; 
but from its want of inland navigation is vastly 
inferior to New York in situation. Its trade to 
India, South America, and the West Indies, is 
great, some of the greatest capitalists in the 
country being established there. In general 
appearance, Boston is more like an English town 
than most in America. It does not seem so 
newly built as New York, Philadelphia, or Balti- 
more, the streets being more varied in their size 
and shape, some being crooked and narrow, 
others straight and wide. The principal private 



26 CITIES, TOWNS, AND VILLAGES, 

dwelling houses have a very elegant appearance, 
and some few have a splendour which would at- 
tract admiration in London or Paris. The pub- 
lic walk near the State-house is almost surround- 
ed by fine houses. The view from the State- 
house is very fine. The harbour with its nu- 
merous vessels, beyond which the bay studded 
with islets looks like a smooth beautiful lake, be- 
ing protected from the ocean by a promontory 
the numerous lofty church spires ; the ranges of 
large warehouses round the docks; the long 
bridges connecting the peninsula with the main 
land ; the surrounding country varied with hill 
and dale, towns and villages, the neighbouring 
University conspicuous amongst them : these al- 
together form a very delightful picture. 

Of all the cities in the United States, no one 
is so celebrated for its beauty as Philadelphia, be- 
ing built like Babylon, which Dean Prideaux 
says Penn took as his model, on the quadrangu- 
lar plan ; that is, the streets intersecting each 
other at right angles. As almost every traveller 
has praised this plan for its beauty, I shall be 
thought a heretic in matters of taste, for avow- 
ing that I do not admire it. Regularity in build- 
ings is doubtless pleasing ; but in a large city, 
there should also be variety. But where the 



CITIES, TOWNS, AND VILLAGES. Tjf 

streets uniformly intersect each other at right 
angles, a tiresome formality is the result. Be- 
sides, interminable streets afford no situation for 
showing a fine building to advantage, as a distant 
front view cannot be obtained. In Philadelphia 
it is necessary to be close to a building to see its 
beauties ; or, if there be an exception, it is the 
Episcopal church in Tenth Street, which stand- 
ing opposite a lane, may be seen further off than 
others, and just serves to show the citizens how 
much maybe gained by the judicious position of 
public edifices. I speak of edifices in the streets, 
for those in the squares can of course be viewed 
at a proper distance. What is the most' wanted 
in Philadelphia is a curve. Who with the slight- 
est pretensions to taste, but must have noticed 
the superior beauty of High Street in Oxford 
from its fine sweep ? college after college, tower 
after tower, gradually displaying their propor- 
tions to the spectator, till his admiration is lost 
in wonder. Who has seen the crescents and 
circus at Bath and not admitted their preemi- 
nence over a square? Who has walked in Regent 
Street in London and been insensible to the 
beauties of the elliptical turn? And what Pa- 
risian but will direct the visiter to the Boule- 
vards, for a town walk of varied attractions ? In 
short, when I hear persons praising the plan of 



.... * , » 

28 CITIES, TOWNS, AND VILLAGES. 

Philadelphia, I cannot help telling them, that it 
is a square-cut, formal place, reminding one of 
those old fashioned gardens on the Dutch plan, 
so satirised by Pope. Altering the words used by 
him, it may be said of Philadelphia, 

" Street nods at street, each alley has a brother,, 
And half the city just reflects the other." 

" But," say the Philadelphians when the plan of 
their city is objected to, " surely Pearl Street in 
New York, which deviates from the straight line, 
is far from handsome." This is very true ; but 
then it is to be observed, that it has neither re- 
gularity nor fine buildings : though for my own 
part, I prefer a city having streets like Pearl Street 
with all its irregularity, to one having no variety. 
The only place in England on the same plan as 
Philadelphia is Salisbury ; at least, after having 
seen almost every town in the country, it is the 
only one I can call to mind. The fact is, that 
most of our towns and cities are built without 
any plan, and of course, many of them are very 
ugly ; witness Stockport, Folkestone and Whit- 
by : but of others it may be said, that the irre- 
gularity itself is beautiful ; such are Oxford, 
Worcester, Colchester and Lancaster. These 
places are generally admired ; but I never heard 
Salisbury praised for its beauty. I am therefore 



CITIES, TOWNS, AND VILLAGES. 29 

fully convinced, that in objecting to Philadel- 
phia, I do so on substantial grounds. The new- 
town of Edinburgh was commenced on the quad- 
rangular plan ; and with great propriety, as the 
old town exhibited nothing of the kind, and one 
served to set off the other : but the citizens have 
been wise enough to deviate from strict uniform- 
ity, perceiving that when carried to a great extent 
it becomes faulty. What is the consequence ? 
Why, that as a whole, Edinburgh is paramount 
in beauty. Its superior locality certainly contri- 
butes to it ; but art has done wonders in making 
a proper use of this superior locality. Philadel- 
phia is on a level surface, making the uniformity 
of the plan still more displeasing. I knew before 
I saw it, from the description I had heard of it, 
that I should not admire it ; and yet with such 
an impression on my mind, I found it less pleas- 
ing than I anticipated. There is only one street 
of great width, being the one which runs cen- 
trally from east to west, but which having a mar- 
ket-house in it, cannot be called handsome. It 
is much on a par with Fleet-market in London. 
Several of the streets are however truly beauti- 
ful, Chesnut Street and Arch Street for instance. 
Never before, did I see ranges of houses so neat, 
comfortable, and simply elegant. The bricks are 
kept nicely painted, looking as fresh as if newly 



30 CITIES, TOWNS, AND VILLAGES. 



erected ; and then they are so set off by the win- 
dow marble slabs, and the marble steps to the 
doors which are kept nicely washed, that I sup- 
pose no European city can show the like. To 
complete the beauty, trees are planted on each 
side of the street. An evening's walk in Ches- 
nut Street, when the best dressed citizens with 
their wives and smiling daughters are enjoying 
the luxury of a stroll after the suspension of busi- 
ness, is to a stranger delightful indeed. Dull 
must be the heart of him who does not participate 
in the hilarity of the hour. 

I have hitherto made no mention of the pub- 
lic buildings in Philadelphia ; nor shall I attempt 
to describe them minutely. Few of the churches 
have steeples ; the reason for which is, that the 
founders of the city being Quakers, had no liking 
to them ; and the Presbyterians who followed, 
brought with them opinions of their Popish ori- 
gin and superstitious tendency, there being at 
that time a controversy in Scotland on the sub- 
ject. The modern Presbyterians having lost the 
objections of their ancestors, and the Episcopa- 
lians never holding them, the recently erected 
churches have the additional ornament of steeples, 
some of them lofty. The Episcopal church in 
Tenth Street pleased me the most of all the re- 



CITIES, TOWNS, AND VILLAGES. 31 

ligious edifices, though not so spacious as sonle 
others. It is as chaste a specimen of modern 
Gothic as is perhaps any where to be seen ; and 
only wants towers of greater height to make it 
the greatest ornament the city can show. The 
University, the Hospital, and two of the Banks, 
are fine buildings, more particularly the latter, 
which are of tasteful, elegant architecture. The 
water-works for supplying the city from the 
Schuylkill are in substantial stone buildings ; and 
are creditable to the public spirit of the citizens, 
who in this instance have combined embellish- 
ment with utility. 

Of the different cities which I saw in America, 
Baltimore was the one which I the most admired ; 
not but I could point out how susceptible it is 
of improvement. With too much adherence to 
the quadrangular plan, it has some variety, the 
ground on which it stands not being level. The 
houses, though not so tasteful as those in Phila- 
delphia, are generally good, and some of them 
superb. The streets are wide : the public build- 
ings numerous and beautiful. The Exchange 
is surmounted by a dome of no mean dimensions, 
topping the other buildings as in the pride of 
superiority. The Catholic cathedral has also a 
large dome, and though unfinished from the w r ant 



32 CITIES, TOWNS, AND VILLAGES. 

of funds, is both externally and internally a fine 
edifice. The Unitarian church placed near it, 
is one of the most exactly finished edifices in the 
country. The Presbyterians and Episcopalians 
have each a fine church ; that of the latter in 
particular is ornamental to the city. When it is 
considered that in addition ;to these, Baltimore 
has a tasteful monument, to commemorate those 
of her citizens who fell in the action at North 
Point, and a lofty one, like the Monument in 
London, in honour of Washington, it will be ad- 
mitted that it is both a beautiful, and interesting 
city. The public springs which supply the in- 
habitants with water, are made contributory to 
elegance as well as comfort, being received into 
basins protected by iron railing, and are quite 
equal in appearance to half the fountains in Paris. 
The prospect from the Washington monument 
is extensive, but vastly inferior in beauty to that 
from the State-house at Boston, the circumjacent 
land being very imperfectly cultivated. 

Richmond, the capital of Virginia, has a beau- 
tiful site, but it cannot be called a beautiful city. 
The Capitol stands on an eminence near the 
Governor's house ; but neither of them has much 
architectural embellishment. They are both 
unworthy of the State. Why should Virginia, 



Cities, towns, and villages. 33 

nearly the largest and most populous State in the 
Union, not have a house for its legislature, equal 
to that of Pennsylvania or of New York ? Of 
the other public buildings, none deserve notice 
as ornaments. The Jail is a large ugly building* 
seeming as if designed by the architect to fright- 
en people from becoming its inmates ; and if 
such had been its effect, I could well have par* 
doned its ugliness ; but I found it crowded with 
criminals, black, white and tawny. How much 
did I regret while walking in Richmond, that a 1 
place which from its site might have been made 
conspicuously beautiful, should be so formal, 
dull and heavy ! Had the streets been planned, 
so as to take advantage of the inequalities of the 
ground, it would have been the object of general 
admiration, instead of being regarded with con- 
tempt. Nothing however would suit the citizens 
but imitating Philadelphia, just as if, admitting 
the plan of that city to be beautiful, it was the 
only beautiful one that could be devised ; or as 
if a town standing on hilly ground should ex- 
actly correspond with one on a level. This la* 
mentable mistake will be perceived when it is 
too late to remedy it. 

Washington, the seat of the government of 
the United States, whence it is sometimes called 

D 



84 CITIES, TOWNS, AND VILLAGES. 

the Federal city, is more varied than those I 
have objected to. The person who laid its plan 
was a Frenchman, who took care to have some 
diagonal streets to diversify it, as well as to afford 
opportunity for the display of the glories of ar- 
chitecture. If the outline be ever rilled up, 
Washington will be a metropolis worthy of the 
country : at present, it is a straggling and not 
very captivating place, having in conjunction 
with Georgetown, which bears the same relation 
to it that Southwark does to London, a popula- 
tion of twelve thousand in a space three miles 
long and half a mile wide. The President's 
House is substantial and plain, and not destitute 
of elegance. It would be considered in England 
a good second-rate country seat. The Capitol, 
with several considerable defects, is the largest 
and finest building in the United States. If 
placed beside the Houses of Parliament, it would 
cast them in the shade ; for England, as is well 
known, cannot boast of the structures where her 
legislators assemble. The street from the Pre- 
sident's House to the Capitol is upwards of a 
mile long, very wide, having a double row of 
trees on each side, and with moderate sized brick 
houses. In some of the other streets, are rows 
of elegant private dwellings, though the best of 
them, even those occupied by foreign ministers, 



CITIES, TOWNS, AND VILLAGES. 



95 



will not compare with the houses of the wealthy 
merchants of Baltimore and Boston. The view 
from the Capitol is very extensive, but neither 
beautiful nor grand. The Potowmac with its 
two branches, is to be sure an object on which 
the eye satisfactorily rests ; but then the land- 
scape is so brown, so bleak (almost every thing 
appearing stunted), and so destitute of villages, 
that it affords little gratification to the spectator. 
The embryo city appears meaner, than a walk 
through it would lead one to imagine. 

Of the smaller, or less important places in the 
United States, I may say, that there is more uni- 
formity, than any one unacquainted with the 
country would easily suppose ; the reason for 
which is, that almost all are on the model of Phi- 
ladelphia. The exceptions are principally to be 
found in those towns founded by the early colo- 
nists, whose want of regularity is often conspi- 
cuous. Albany, the seat of government of New 
York, named as well as the State in compliment 
to James II. when Duke of York and Albany, 
has two or three handsome streets. I recom- 
mend the Philadelphians who chance to stop 
there on their way to Niagara, to notice the ca- 
pital of that city, and see if they cannot find the 
d 2 



36 CITIES, TOWNS, AND VILLAGES. 

exceeding beauty of terminating a street by a 
fine building. If they should make this disco- 
very, for such I must suppose it would be to 
them, let them thereafter be cautious of extrava- 
gant eulogiums on their own monotonous city. 
Penn was a man of talents, but he did not un- 
derstand the art of planning cities. 

Norfolk in Virginia is a town not at all re- 
markable for elegance, yet it pleased me from 
its similarity to many of our small towns, espe- 
cially to my native place. Springfield in Con- 
necticut was another town that pleased me. It 
is a small place with a pretty church, and was 
so clean, airy and cheerful-looking, that a visit 
to it was quite refreshing. Burlington in New 
Jersey standing on that noble river the Dela- 
ware, is a quiet, retired town, just fitted for one 
who having been engaged in active life, is desir- 
ous of terminating his days in a place, where he 
can have a small genteel circle of acquaintance 
removed from the bustle of the world. The 
number of private dwelling houses struck me as 
numerous for the size of the town. Being sha- 
ded by trees they have something of a rural as- 
pect : the very atmosphere seemed redolent of 
tranquillity. It is one of the few small places 



CITIES, TOWNS, AND VILLAGES. 37 

in America with an adjacent public promenade, 
which is on the bank of the river, and is very 
pleasant. 

The villages are not picturesque. Instead of 
white-washed cottages with patches of garden 
ground, and honeysuckles and roses twined 
around the little porch, we see plain wooden 
houses, where nothing beyond bare convenience 
has been attended to. Some, perhaps most, are 
tolerably neat, but others are as miserable look- 
ing as those on the Yorkshire moors. When 
placed in the midst of fine scenery, they are 
however interesting. There is one on the Bran- 
dywine about six miles from Wilmington in De- 
laware, the name of which has escaped my recol- 
lection, which may be mentioned as an instance. 
Ellicot's mills near Baltimore is another. In the 
western parts of Maryland and the midland of 
Virginia, are one or two others, which would if 
in England be visited by our fashionable tourists, 
and dilated on with enthusiasm. 

The complaint made against the American 
cities, that they have few interesting associations, 
is incident to every newly erected place. Yet 
perhaps even this complaint is scarcely well 
founded. Is there not something interesting for 



38 CITIES, TOWNS, AND VILLAGES. 

instance in Philadelphia, in considering that 
within its bounds the declaration of independ- 
ence was signed ? That Penn there formed his 
celebrated treaty with the Indians ? that Frank- 
lin there passed his youth and declining years ? 
not to mention some other particulars. Is it not 
animating to an American when at Boston to 
think of Bunker's Hill ? or at New York to re- 
flect on the advantages of steam navigation first 
brought into successful operation there ? And 
after all, who can wish a more cheering associa- 
tion, than that springing from the fact, that only 
about a century and a half ago, all was wilder- 
ness and savage life, where flourishing cities now 
stand, and civilization with all its kindness and 
heart-felt sympathies prevails ? Nay, even fifty 
years ago, Baltimore, now containing sixty thou- 
sand inhabitants, and so many specimens of ar- 
chitectural beauty, was only an insignificant vil- 
lage. What a proud triumph obtained by ci- 
vilized, industrious man ! These associations, if 
not so poetical as those connected with some of 
the events of antiquity, are at least as cheering. 
The rising sun has not the glorious radiance of 
the setting sun ; but who does not rejoice at see- 
ing darkness give place to light ? 



CHAPTER III. 



MODES AND CONVENIENCES OF TRAVELLING. 



On the principal rivers there are very fine steam- 
packets, agreeing with ours in every respect, ex- 
cept in there being no difference in the charge 
between the fore and aft cabin, and of course no 
separation between the genteel part of society, 
and the less polished. Republican notions of 
equality may contribute to this want of separa- 
tion, but a more probable reason for it is, that it 
has been adopted in consequence of the stage- 
coaches having no seats for outside passengers, 
thus accustoming all classes to travel together 
without regard to station in life. Whatever may 
be the cause, considerable benefits result from it. 
The wealthy merchant, the learned lawyer, and 
the independent gentlemen, are likely to feel 
sympathy and respect for their less fortunate 
neighbours when they meet on the same footing ; 
and to repress haughty deportment or manifest- 
ations of superiority. The poor learn to avoid 
that crouching so common to the poor in most 
parts of Europe, while, at the same time, the as- 
perities of their manners and tempers are cor- 



40 MODES AND CONVENIENCES 



rected by the example of those who have been 
taught to conciliate by gentleness and courtesy, 

The coaches I have said carry no outside pas- 
sengers, the alleged reason for which is, that the 
roads are not smooth enough to render outside 
travelling safe. This is true of most of the roads 
but not of all. In the neighbourhood of Boston, 
in Long Island, and between Philadelphia and 
Trenton, are roads sufficiently compact and level. 
How it is, that the coach proprietors on these 
and other good roads do not start coaches on the 
English model I cannot explain. None of the 
stage-coaches have any approach to stylishness ; 
many of them are little adapted to secure the 
passengers from the inclemencies of the weather, 
having only leather curtains to exclude the wind 
and rain. In the winter, the better sort are pad- 
ded with woollen cushions. The coach-box be- 
ing nearly on a level with the seats, the driver 
can hear what passes in conversation between 
the passengers, when these cushions are removed, 
and the leather curtains only are left. In the 
newly settled parts, and in the bye-roads of the 
older, the traveller must content himself as well 
as he can in a light, tilted waggon, in which, if 
the road be rough, he will experience a jolting 
painful to flesh and bones. Great command of 



OF TRAVELLING. 



41 



temper is necessary for one, who after being ac- 
customed to smooth roads and easy carriages, is 
for the first time seated in one of these waggons 
when travelling on what is technically called a 
gridiron road, that is, a road formed as that be- 
tween St. Petersburg and Moscow originally was, 
of trunks of trees, placed across from side to side, 
covered with a layer of soil. On such a road, I 
have found the jolting so great as to knock my 
head violently against the sides and top of the 
vehicle, besides its making my hip-bones quite 
sore. What was the torture of Sisyphus com- 
pared to this! The man who can endure it with- 
out peevishness is a practical philosopher worthy 
of being ranked with the Stoics. I cannot give 
a person who has travelled in France, a better 
idea of American conveyances, than by saying 
they are much on a par with the French. On 
the other hand, the New York hackney-coaches 
are as superior to those of Paris or London, as 
English stage-coaches are to French. Post- 
chaises have not yet been introduced. 

The inns, or taverns as in many districts they 
are called, are correspondent to the roads by 
which they stand. Where but few travellers 
pass, they are as destitute of comfort as can be 
well supposed. Large rooms without carpets or 



42 MODES AND CONVENIENCES 

other covering for the floor, the windows with 
broken panes of glass, the chairs and tables dirty, 
the chambers crowded with ten or a dozen beds 
having no curtains ; these are the common cha- 
racteristics. In the more frequented roads, the 
accommodations are of course better; and in 
many places so good, that the complainer of them 
is unreasonable, proving himself to be of a dis- 
contented, grumbling disposition. In the prin- 
cipal cities, the accommodations are equal to 
those to be found in our commercial towns : 
though there are no taverns in America furnished 
in the splendid style of the hotels of Bath, Edin- 
burgh and Brighton. Such establishments could 
not at present succeed. 

The usual reception the traveller finds at the 
inns, is that of cold civility $ but the landlord 
and the waiter, though not obsequious, are ge- 
nerally sufficiently attentive. Some things in 
country places a little discomposed me at first, 
but resolving to act on the adage of doing 
at Rome as Rome does, and not suffer trifles to 
fret me, I found that I soon lost the sense of 
uneasiness. At Schenectady I requested to have 
a jug of water in my bed-room, but after waiting 
for some time and not receiving it, I resolved to 
get it for myself. The bar-keeper stared at me 



OF TRAVELLING. 



48 



with some surprize, for which I knew not how 
to account ; but I afterwards observed that 
stage-coach passengers were expected to wash 
below. In small villages, this is the common 
practice ; and I had sometimes to wipe on a 
towel which perhaps a dozen persons had used 
before me. Complaint would probably have been 
taken in ill part. I should have been considered 
troublesome, and perhaps told that if dissatisfied, 
I might look for other quarters. As to the beds, 
a point of great consequence to a traveller, I 
found it best not to be too particular. In several 
places, I had only one sheet, in others the sheets 
appeared to have been slept in several times 
since washing. But the worst is, that in many 
places several beds are placed in one room, and 
without regard to the feelings of the guests, or 
in any way consulting their desires, they are 
shown to them indiscriminately. At a tavern in 
North Carolina, I was shown to a bed into which 
a young man was about to enter, though no en- 
quiry had been made of me if I had any objec- 
tion to a bedfellow. I recognized him as a jour- 
neyman carpenter who was at work on the pre- 
mises, a decently dressed, clean young fellow; 
but as I knew nothing of him, I was determined 
to sit up all night rather than share the bed with 
him. It had not entered their heads that I 



44 MODES AND CONVENIENCES 

should object ! however, on enquiring if I could 
not be accommodated with a bed to myself, they 
managed, after manifesting some surprise, to 
let me have one. I made my request in as polite 
a manner as possible, considering that if I af- 
fronted either the journeyman or the host, I 
might have to regret my presumption. At 
Rochester in New York, having occasion to re- 
main several days, I secured a room with only 
one bed in it to myself, when lo ! on retiring 
one night, I found my bed preoccupied. I had 
learnt enough of American inns to know the 
trouble I should fall into by making much com- 
plaint; accordingly, on an apology being made, 
I took another in a triple-bedded room without 
enquiry as to the occupants of the other two 
beds. Seldom is a bed room door fitted up with 
either lock or bolt ; however, I felt no fear, and 
never lost any thing. Notwithstanding what I 
have stated, I can truly say, that in by far the 
greater number of the inns I stopped at, I found 
comfort, civility and attention. But then I en- 
deavoured to give as little trouble as possible, 
and make myself familiar with the family of the 
house, the proper plan for a traveller in a 
foreign land. Good temper may be sometimes 
requisite : indeed without it, no person should 
think of leaving his native country; with it, he 



OF TRAVELLING. 



45 



may proceed easily notwithstanding occasional 
causes of irritation, as a steam-boat preserves 
its steadiness against both wind and tide. 

As to meals, ordinaries are common every 
where. The landlord's wife or daughter gene- 
rally presides at the breakfast table, but not so 
commonly at the dinner table. The supply of 
provisions at both of them is almost universally 
plentiful ; in large towns quite luxurious. De- 
canters of brandy and whiskey are placed on the 
table. It is usual to pour a very small quantity 
into a glass, diluting it with water till it is quite 
weak. This is the most common beverage. Beer 
has become of late years a favourite drink, but 
in some parts of Virginia it is not to be obtained 
either in draught or bottled. Cyder of excellent 
quality is as common as in Normandy. Peach- 
brandy and apple-brandy are much used in some 
districts, and when properly diluted are palat- 
able and wholesome. The dinner ordinary has 
almost every thing to recommend it except con- 
versation, which according to American notions 
is unnecessary to the enjoyment of dinner ; so 
completely sensual are they at that meal. The 
bell rings. A rush ensues. The table is sur- 
rounded by guests who devour rather than eat 
what is before them, as if business were so ur<- 



46 MODES AND CONVENIENCES 

gent, that not a moment was to be lost. Each 
one rises as he finishes, and without waiting for 
the rest of the company, leaves the table with a 
precipitation as if he feared an infection. I used 
often to be the last to rise, not being able to eat 
so ravenously as is common. 

Besides the public taverns, there are in many 
parts what are called houses of private enter- 
tainment, being houses where the traveller, who 
has no objection to take his meals with the fa- 
mily, and conform in every respect to their 
habits, may find himself comfortable. To a 
pedestrian like myself, they are very acceptable. 
One of the best houses that I stopped at in the 
whole country was of this description. It was 
in the heart of Virginia, and so remote from any 
town, that I little expected in such a situation 
to find a house elegantly furnished. It being 
dark when I entered, the sun having set about 
an hour, and I a humble pedestrian, I was fear- 
ful I might find some difficulty in removing any 
suspicions which might arise from the visit of a 
solitary traveller at such an hour. But when I 
inquired if I could have a night's lodging, no 
difficulties were started. My host soon began 
to inquire where I was from, and on my telling 
him I was an Englishman, he spoke with so 



OF TRAVELLING. 



47 



much respect of my country and its institutions, 
that I took the opportunity of giving him my 
favourable opinions of America. The conver- 
sation was to our mutual satisfaction. After 
supper he gave out a hymn, which his wife and 
daughters joined in singing. They were mem- 
bers of that useful but despised body, the Wes- 
leyan Methodists. On getting to my bed cham- 
ber, I found it was one which for neatness and 
comfort would have done credit to any European 
city ; yet this was in the mountainous district of 
Virginia, and surrounded by forests ! But what 
pleased me the best was to find a book-case well 
stored with choice authors ; a luxury I had not 
enjoyed for some weeks previous, except at a 
private house at Charlottesville to which I was 
introduced by letter. Besides these houses it is 
easy in many remote parts to obtain a meal or a 
night's lodging at a farm-house, and in some in- 
stances, the parties who accommodate the traveller 
refuse to receive any compensation. A farmer's 
w r ife in a remote part of Virginia told me that 
they had often entertained travellers, and were 
willing still to afford reasonable accommoda- 
tion ; but that they never had taken any remu- 
neration, and should think it beneath them to 
do so. I met only a single instance of repul- 
siveness, and that I could not be surprised at; 



48 MODES AND CONVENIENCES 



for the house being situated off the high roady 
and it being after nightfall when I called, the 
farmer might justly view me with suspicion or 
fear. He gave me a direction to a tavern distant 
about two miles ; but having to track my path 
through a thick wood, I again lost my way and 
knew not what to do. I began to think I must 
climb a tree to sleep in ; but after toiling up a 
steep hill, where my way was impeded at almost 
every step, I got sight of a distant light. When 
I reached the house where it was, I roused the 
people from their beds, and got a clear direc- 
tion to the tavern, which was not far off. At 
this tavern, I obtained a supper as well as a bed, 
the landlord not having retired to rest. 

I have mentioned my pedestrianism ; but the 
fact is, that I traversed the country in a variety 
of ways, a plan proper to be pursued by every 
one desirous of knowing what are the feelings, 
habits and condition of the different classes. I 
saw the impolicy of confining to one mode, by 
learning the opinions of a New York gentleman 
respecting England, through which he travelled 
in a private carriage. He was evidently a man 
of extensive reading and considerable study; 
but as for real knowledge of the people of Eng- 
land, he might as well have never left his na- 



OF TRAVELLING. 



49 



tive city. He had formed such erroneous opi- 
nions, as in one of his candid and enquiring 
mind, I could only attribute to want of oppor- 
tunity for acquiring such as would be more con- 
sonant to correctness. For myself, if my opi- 
nions of America be incorrect, it must be attri- 
buted to my prejudice, to my want of discrimi- 
nation or some similar cause, for as to opportu- 
nity for forming right judgment, I walked in 
different directions upwards of six hundred 
miles, stopping as occasions offered to ask ques- 
tions at the houses of the poor, to converse with 
negro slaves and labourers, and to ascertain the 
feelings of the middle class of the community on 
the government, laws and institutions of the 
land. A considerable part was visited in gigs 
and private carriages of gentlemen who interest- 
ed themselves in my behalf. Steam-boats and 
stage-coaches conveyed me the chief part of the 
distance ; and I went for two hundred miles on 
the Erie canal in a packet-boat towed by horses. 
The latter conveyance though tedious was pre- 
ferable to a rough road. Going by night as well 
as by day at the rate of three miles and a half 
in the hour, my progress was faster than by con- 
fining to day-travelling in the stage-coach. Tra- 
velling by canal is not the way to see the beau- 
ties of the country; but in the present instance, 

E 



50 MODES AND CONVENIENCES 



I was glad that I availed myself of the passage- 
boat, since it threw me into company of a num- 
ber of gentlemen of high standing in the legal 
profession. The Supreme Court of the State of 
New York which had been sitting at Utica, 
broke up on the morning of the day I got thi- 
ther. In consequence lawyers and their clients 
crowded the boat ; and it being autumn, we had 
besides, several country dealers who had been 
to Albany and New York to purchase their win- 
ter stocks. Having been but a short time in 
the country, I informed several of them of my 
being a foreigner, requesting at the same time 
to be informed of several particulars. These 
were readily communicated* and my attention 
was from time to time called to objects worthy 
notice. Owing to the great number of passen- 
gers, beds could not be provided for all ; ac- 
cordingly several, of whom I was one, had to 
sit by the fire all night. The time passed plea- 
santly in conversation till two o'clock in the 
morning, when one of the hammocks giving 
way, several were roused from sleep. One of 
them jumped up, and offered me the use of a 
mattrass on which he had been lying ; for in 
addition to the births, and hammocks suspended 
from the deck, mattrasses were placed on 
benches and tables for some to repose on with- 



OF TRAVELLING. 



51 



out undressing. I accepted his offer and slept 
soundly till daylight. Though the boat was too 
much crowded to be comfortable, yet it was 
very agreeable to me to meet such a motly com- 
pany, and mark their behaviour and conversa- 
tion. Some of them sat down to cards ; but the 
rally ings of the counsel on a judge who joined a 
whist party broke up nearly all the games. 

In my stage-coach journies, I frequently fell 
into agreeable company. On one occasion, I 
travelled several stages with a religious zealot 
who wore his beard, a man who however had 
as much pleasantry in conversation as most. 
Whether it was his singularity that turned our 
thoughts to the subject of religion, or whether 
it was his wish to introduce it as a topic I do 
not know, but we talked of nothing else for the 
greater part of the way. He enforced his opi- 
nions with less dogmatism than many persons of 
a similar stamp, and with thorough good humour 
till his beard was alluded to. I believe he felt 
that his deviation from common practice was 
untenable on a religious basis, and was therefore 
reluctant to be put on the defensive. The com- 
mandment to observe the sabbath-day brought 
on an astronomical discussion which was not 
conducted with equal temper, one of the party 

e 2 



52 



MODES AND CONVENIENCES 



being quite offended at one of his notions being 
rejected. Exclusive of this, the journey was 
amusing and agreeable ; and to me who was 
studying the character of American citizens, 
particularly useful. On another occasion, I had 
as fellow passenger a gentleman who had tra- 
velled extensively in the south of Europe. His 
comparisons of the United States with Spain and 
Italy were valuable to me. He had never been 
in England ; but I told him that I had ; so we 
had a good opportunity for forming right esti- 
mates of national advantages. Several hours 
after, another passenger began to guess what 
State I was from. He fixed on New York ; but 
when after a little concealment, I told him what 
countryman I was, he was greatly surprised; a 
circumstance pleasing to me, since it showed 
that I had learnt enough of the manners and 
sentiments of the country to talk freely of it in 
the assumed character of a native without be- 
traying my secret; an attainment more difficult 
than some who have never been from home 
would suppose. 

In voyaging from Norfolk to Richmond by 
the steam-packet, I made acquaintance with the 
Spanish consul whom I found an intelligent, 
educated man. From his long residence in the 



i 



OF TRAVELLING. 53 

United States, I attached importance to his re- 
marks. This voyage was one of the most in- 
teresting I made. The number of passengers 
might be about sixty, about one third of whom 
were foreigners, there being persons from eight 
different countries. I found out and made this 
circumstance known, when it excited a lively in- 
terest. To learn the opinions of persons from 
so many different countries, of that in which 
they were, was both entertaining and instruct- 
ive. I think it right to add that all spoke more 
favourably than otherwise. I was conversing 
with some Germans when a Dane who spoke 
their language with tolerable fluency joined us. 
We became quite in high glee ; but whatever 
laughs were made at American peculiarities, 
there was no other than a cordial feeling to the 
citizens in general. 

I have now perhaps written more than enough 
to show what the traveller in America may ex- 
pect to meet ; yet I think it right to add that 
in many places, I found tavern-keepers who 
showed me a kindness beyond that required by 
their calling. This probably arose from the 
familiarity I constantly adopted. Though in 
England I had not been in the habit of convers- 
ing with persons in their station in a similar 



54 



MODES AND CONVENIENCES 



mariner, I considered that it was best in America 
not only to conform to established customs, but 
to avail myself of every chance of learning some- 
thing new and confirming or correcting what I 
had learnt. The plan I found had its advan- 
tages. The hostess of the house at which I 
stopped at Buffalo on Lake Erie, gave me an 
interesting account of the skirmishes in Canada 
during the late war. Not only was her conver- 
sation pleasing, but her manners were soft and 
considerably refined. A widow at a solitary 
house distant about seven miles from Buffalo 
communicated some particulars of the Indians 
in the vicinity. She was an animated woman ; 
and though removed from society by her remote 
situation, one who knew how to demean herself 
with great propriety. She begged that if I 
should ever go that road again I w^ould give 
them a call. This was not spoken in reference 
to her wishing my custom, but to show her 
friendly feeling to a foreigner. I was sensible 
of it by her tone and manner. The landlord of 
an inn in Connecticut answered my enquiries 
respecting the Shakers, who have a settlement 
near his house ; and seemed both capable and 
ready to give me information of every sort re- 
specting the vicinity. One of his daughters was 
beautiful and fascinating. I held a long conver- 



OF TRAVELLING. 



55 



sation with her, and found her quite intelligent. 
The morning I spent at this house is one to 
which I recur with pleasure. At the inn at Har- 
per's Ferry in Virginia, I met a gentleman and 
his wife from Tennessee ; they, the mistress of 
the house and her daughter, with myself, passed 
a sociable evening together conversing princi- 
pally on literary topics. The master who had 
been from home, returned on the following 
morning. He was a Protestant, his wife and 
daughter Catholics. All of them behaved in an 
agreeable manner ; and made me feel as if I 
were at home. His bookcase contained some 
valuable historical works of which while I staid 
I made good use. Books are so scarce in most 
country places in America, that when I hap- 
pened of a few, I found myself as refreshed as 
after bathing in cold water in a hot day. 



CHAPTER IV. 

THE MEN. 

In the remarks I am about to make on the meri 5 
I shall confine myself principally to their habits 
and behaviour, reserving some remarks on their 
character to a future chapter. 

One of the first things that strikes the atten- 
tion of a stranger in America, is the coldness and 
apparent heartlessness with which they greet an 
acquaintance. Their deportment is quite chill- 
ing. Yet it is soon perceptible that this arises 
not so much from apathy as from habit. It is 
however proper to observe that the Virginians 
are to be exempted from this particular, since 
they are not at all backward to manifest their 
feelings. Of the men in general it is not- 
withstanding to be said, that they never show 
that boisterousness of manner so common with 
the Irish. In their houses, they lounge when 
seated, in a way which in some other coun- 
tries, would be viewed as quite indecorous. It 
is quite common even in company to lean back 
in the chair so as to let it stand on its hind legs % 



THE MHN, 



^7 



and when in this position near a fire, they will 
sometimes place their feet against the mantle 
piece. Imagine a man sitting in this manner 
i with a segar in his mouth, and you have a com- 
plete picture of American independence ! So ge- 
neral, and indeed almost universal is the habit of 
lounging, that I noticed in the Supreme Court 
of Massachusetts sitting at Boston, counsellors 
when engaged in a cause leaning back in the way 
I have described ; and at Harrisburg in Pennsyl- 
vania, legislators with their legs stretched on the 
writing desk before them ! The same habits I 
noticed in courts of justice in several other states, ? 
and in the House of Representatives at Wash- 
ington. True it is that there are many gentle- 
men who are careful to avoid lounging, more es- 
pecially in company, but they are exceptions to 
the generality. 

The dirty, disagreeable practice of snuff taking, 
so prevalent in Europe, is but little in vogue : 
but then smoking and chewing tobacco, both 
nearly as bad, are very general. The idea of the 
soothing tendency, and consequent utility of 
smoking in concentrating thought, is urged in 
its favour, but chiefly by those who think, or at 
least reason but little. The most active minds 
need not its assistance. Bonaparte never smoked. 



$8 THE MEN. 

Th e use of quids is in my opinion as indefensible 
as smoking. Like dram-drinking it may operate 
on the animal spirits, but like that be injurious 
except in a few special cases. But my chief ob- 
jection to it is, that it is disliked by females. 
Surely there is a strange want of attention to them 
on the part of those men who chew tobacco, since 
they are all averse to it. Those who do so must 
frequently spit, it not being pleasant to swallow 
the juice. What is the consequence ? Why that 
carpets, fire-places, and stair-cases bear marks of 
the stains. The pews in many places of worship 
are discoloured by the tobacco juice, though the 
stricter professions deny themselves the indul- 
gence of a quid during service time. Perhaps I 
ought not to censure the Americans for spitting 
on floors and carpets, as the French who value 
themselves on the scrupulosity of their atten- 
tions to the minute points of behaviour, do the 
same thing: but it is a habit very offensive to me. 
In reference to this subject, let me mention how 
diverted I was at the reluctance of some persons 
to admit that they were chargeable with the ha- 
bit at all. Conversing with a gentleman in Phi- 
ladelphia on the state of society in America, he 
requested me to mention any unpleasant habits 
that I had noticed amongst them ; when I named 
this of spitting on the floor. He could not allow 



THE MEN. 



59 



that such a habit existed, for if it did, he must, 
he said, have noticed it. But when I assured 
him that I had noticed it in every part where I 
had been, and in genteel families too, he was ob- 
liged to yield the point. I was in a lecture-room, 
at Ovid in New York, the floor of which was as 
wet, as if a watering-pot had been used to lay 
the dust: this was occasioned entirely by the spit- 
ting of the men. 

In the principal cities, proper attention is paid 
to personal cleanliness and neatness of dress ; 
but in many parts of the country, considerable 
neglect is apparent. I found it needful to carry 
a piece of soap constantly with me, as the article 
is hardly ever to be found at inns on the road. 
Even in genteel private houses, I have noticed 
occasionally a want of it. I have slept in a room 
furnished in the first style, where this necessary 
article was omitted. Little matters of this kind 
are sometimes more elucidatory of the habits of 
a people, than formal dissertations. Let me 
therefore mention that I went into a draper's 
shop at Fredericsburg in Virginia to purchase a 
nightcap, but no such thing was to be had. I 
tried at a second, and was told that no dealer in 
the town kept nightcaps, as the people did not 
use them. At Richmond I obtained one. 



60 



THE MEN. 



The men everywhere are less attentive to the 
softer sex than social happiness requires. When 
in visiting parties, they are of course more atten- 
tive than at other times, but they seem on such 
occasions rather desirous of gaining the favour- 
able opinion of the ladies by affected ease and 
sprightliness, than by those minute attentions, 
which when in union with cheerfulness, are con* 
sidered by us as the best recommendations. 
They make a great mistake in supposing that 
women dislike rational conversation. Chester- 
field with all his knowledge of the world fell into 
the same mistake. It certainly is not to be 
wished that mathematics or metaphysics should 
be discussed in their company ; but polite litera- 
ture in its various departments may be intro- 
duced with great propriety. Topics of this kind 
are as agreeable to young ladies of cultivated 
minds, as everlasting criticisms on the best 
dancers, or witticisms on the blunders and awk- 
wardness of others. The American gentlemen 
when convinced of this, and disposed to try the 
experiment, will find that it has at least this ad- 
vantage in it, that it will be beneficial to them, 
even if it should chance to be insufficiently al- 
luring to the ladies ; a result I do not anticipate. 
If it be true, as I was several times assured, that 
the ladies prefer Europeans to their own country- 



THE MEN. 



61 



men, may it not be in part attributed to the su- 
perior respect paid to their understandings by 
the former ? What sensible young lady admires 
being treated as if she were only a dressed doll ? 

In their intercourse with each other the men 
are easy and polite. The coldness shown in sa- 
lutation to which I alluded before, soon gives 
pfSee to more genial behaviour. And if they 
have not the tinsel of compliment, or the most 
refined address, they have what is of incompara- 
bly more value, a disposition to promote the 
kindly feelings by anticipations of the wishes of 
others. If their introductory deportment does 
not raise expectations, their conduct after is sure 
to gratify : the essence of politeness they emi- 
nently possess. 

It is proper to say something of the labouring 
class of society, who have generally been repre- 
sented as a rude, undisciplined set. I met now 
and then with a rude fellow, but I must say that 
in general they are civil and respectful though 
not crouching. I asked a bricklayer who was 
at work in Washington which was the way to the 
Catholic church. He immediately laid down his 
trowel, and walked with me for some distance 
till we came in sight of it, fearful that if he gave 



THE MEN* 



me only an oral direction, I should be puzzled 
to find it. I walked one day about ten miles 
with a journeyman tailor whom I overtook on 
the road, and observed that in talking with me 
on different subjects, he showed a correctness of 
behaviour, highly creditable to one whose means 
of improvement had evidently been scanty. He 
was a Jersey man. More rudeness, or at any 
rate more latitude in behaviour, is observable in 
the Irish labourers in America than in the na- 
tives, the reason for which is I presume, that 
considering themselves in the land of liberty, 
they may assume any airs with impunity. Work 
is so easily to be had, that they do not mind be- 
ing paid off. That the poor in general are not 
inattentive to behaviour, is evident from the 
manners of children. When walking in the un- 
felled native forest, I have been surprised by 
the boys touching their hats, and the girls curt- 
seying to me, as I passed the log house of their 
.parents. 



CHAPTER V. 



THE WOMEN* 



The condition of women is in all countries a 
matter of great interest, since it is indicative of 
the state of civilization and happiness of the men. 
It is only in countries highly civilized that wo- 
men are placed in their proper station, and treat- 
ed as they deserve. In the savage state, they 
are regarded as beasts of burden ; in a semi- 
civilized state, they are often valued only as 
ministers of sensual gratification. During the 
chivalrous ages, they were idolized, but assured- 
ly not made so happy as in a more advanced state 
of society. It is only when women are treated 
as rational beings, when neither brutal neglect 
nor idolatrous submission are shown in the beha- 
viour of men, that their virtues expand and pro- 
duce all that harmony and decorum, without 
which life is like a garden overrun with weeds 
and wild-flowers, having few charms and no fra- 
grance. The women in America are less influ- 
ential than they should be, the reason for which 
is, that they are brought up with too much re- 



64 



THE WOMEN. 



serve. Modesty and retiredness are however 
such great charms in the female character, that 
I shall give my objections with caution and I 
hope with suitable diffidence. In the United 
States it necessarily happens, that by far the 
greater part of the community have but little 
leisure. It is therefore very desirable that those 
hours which a young man can call his own, should 
be employed in cultivating his mind, and mould- 
ing his disposition to what is amiable. Now 
both these objects are promoted by an acquaint- 
ance with educated young women. The desire 
of pleasing operates so powerfully, that a youth 
possessing the advantage of their acquaintance, 
soon learns to apply to mental improvement lest 
they should despise him for his ignorance. The 
development of his faculties is attended by 
an improvement of manners, and the improve- 
ment of manners produces a correspondent im- 
provement of temper and disposition. Of course, I 
do not mean that these are the invariable results, 
but that the causes are adequate to their produc- 
tion. But owing to the restraint imposed on fe- 
males in America, it is seldom that a young man 
is fortunate enough to enjoy their society with- 
out being suspected of more than common 
friendship. Of this, I was myself an instance. 
When at New York I became acquainted with the 



THE WOMEN. 



05 



family of a merchant in whose society I took 
great delight, and knowing that my intimacy 
with them must soon cease, Iw r as their frequent 
visiter. But what was my surprise when I was 
one day informed by a gentleman, that it was 
reported on 'change that I was likely to marry 
one of them before I embarked for England ! A 
similar report was raised of an English gentle- 
man resident at Washington, though a mutual 
friend of the parties told me that he believed 
neither of them had any idea of such a thing. 
Now it is evident that if a greater degree of free- 
dom were allowed, reports of this nature would 
not so often occur to check familiar intercourse. 
It may be said, that the intimacy and love sub- 
sisting between brothers and. sisters, are quite 
sufficient to produce all the good, without any 
of the disadvantages, of the greater freedom I 
am advocating. To this I reply, that invaluable 
as is the company of sisters to a young man, it 
seldom produces that spirit of improvement 
which I have mentioned as the consequence of 
a more extended acquaintance with the female 
sex. Sisters may correct faults and foibles in 
their brothers, but they cannot so easily produce 
in them a captivating grace. A young man is 
satisfied with the esteem and affection of his sis- 
ters, but likes to be admired by other young la- 

F 



66 



THE WOMEN. 



dies ; and without the desire to please be ex- 
cited in early life, the attempt in a subsequent 
period, generally proves a partial failure. 

In all places of public resort, except those of 
amusement where the company is select, the 
American ladies are chary both in their deport- 
ment and language. The practice of conversing 
freely and instantaneously as the, French do, 
with persons who are entire strangers, is what 
shocks their ideas of female delicacy and reserve. 
But in their own private circles, they are as com- 
municative and free as can be desired. Though 
they have not the enthusiasm of the Irish, nor 
the sprightliness of the French, they are exceed- 
ingly to be admired, as they possess in a super- 
eminent degree, that softness which throws so 
much grace over feminine actions, and when 
united with good sense makes the strongest im- 
pression on the heart. Another trait, and a 
most interesting one it is, is the confidence they 
repose on those with whom they are familiar. 
They manifest no desire to conceal under the 
garb of affectation, that warmth of heart which 
women in every country but France are said to 
possess. What is much to their credit, they will 
without hesitation, when a topic is introduced of 
which they chance to be ignorant, request in- 



THE WOMEN. 



67 



formation in the most artless manner. This ren- 
ders them very fascinating. A French girl thinks 
herself qualified to say something on every point: 
an English girl does not like to talk on subjects 
she does not understand, but will not ask for in- 
formation, lest she should betray her ignorance : 
an American girl will confess her ignorance, 
and desire to be put in possession of such mate- 
rials as may enable her to talk. There is no dif- 
ficulty in deciding which of the three act most 
conformably to reason, and become in conse- 
quence the most agreeable. Certain it is, that 
Europeans from different countries concur in ad- 
mitting that no ladies are more captivating than 
the American. A German in Philadelphia with 
whom I was conversing respecting them, spoke 
quite in raptures of their amiability, and told me 
he believed I should not leave the country with- 
out taking a wife home with me, a point how- 
ever in which he happened to be mistaken. And 
yet, I believe few women make better wives ; 
all of them being, as far as I could ascertain, in- 
structed in domestic management, a very com- 
mendable regulation ; for a woman who knows 
not how to superintend the concerns of her 
houshold, is like a watch without its hands, de- 
ficient in that which is indispensable to useful- 
ness. If in any part of the country, this is neg- 
lected, it is in the Slave States. The rich 
f 2 



68 



THE WOMEN. 



planters keep female housekeepers, who take 
that part which it would be advantageous to their 
daughters to be capable of doing themselves. 
Accustomed from early life to be attended by 
slaves, they acquire habits of laziness both men- 
tal and corporeal, which the heat of the climate 
disposes them to continue. The little exertion 
they are capable of making is truly surprising. 
A walk of a mile or two for recreation is what 
they cannot think of. It appears as formidable 
to them as a lesson in Greek does to a school- 
boy. The description given by Thomson, of 
some of the inmates of his Castle of Indolence, 
may be applied to them : 

" Their only labour is to kill the time, 
And labour dire it is, and weary woe. 
They sit, they loll, turn o'er some idle rhyme ; 
Then rising sudden to the glass they go, 
Or saunter forth with tottering step and slow : 
This soon too rude an exercise they find ; 
Straight on the couch their limbs again they throw, 
Where hours on hours they sighing lie reclined, 
And court the vapoury God soft breathing in the wind." 

Notwithstanding this inaction they are amiable, 
and in conversation quite as volatile as their 
northern neighbours. 

It is neither in the ball-room, the theatre, nor 
the card-party, that the American ladies are seen 
to most advantage. It is, and may it long con- 



THE WOJIEX. 



tinue to be the ease, in their own domestic cir- 
cle that we must meet them, to enjoy their 
company and witness the full display of their ge- 
nuine characters. The man admitted to their 
society at their own homes, must be insensible 
to the most refined feelings if he fails to experi- 
ence delight. When very young, they are viva- 
cious ; but it is remarkable that their vivacity 
abates and gives way to a staidness of manner 
approaching to demureness, by the time they 
reach the middle period of life. Whether this 
change is produced by the climate or their ha- 
bits, I do not pretend to know : perhaps both 
may have their influence. Their complexion 
also undergoes a change. The ruddiness of 
youth gives way to paleness by the time they ar- 
rive at puberty, and is succeeded by sallowness. 
In figure they appear to great advantage. Finer 
forms nature never produced than are to be 
found in America. If any thing is wanting to 
complete the outline, it is in the bosom which is 
too flat ; yet if Pygmalion had seen such forms, 
he would never have become enamoured of his 
statue. They dress neatly and elegantly, so that 
their fine figures are shown to great advantage. 
They copy the French fashions rather more than 
the English, and seem to unite the elegance of 
each. 



70 



THE WOMEN. 



When walking the streets with a gentleman, 
single ladies are not accustomed to accept his 
arm, lest they should be considered forward ; a 
particular in which they correspond with the 
Welsh and the Irish, as well as with some of the 
nations of continental Europe. After sunset, 
or when they stand engaged, they are less scru- 
pulous. An Englishman told me that soon after 
his arrival in America, he called on a gentleman 
in Philadelphia whose daughter politely offered 
to conduct him to some part of the city to which 
he was a stranger. He gladly accepted her offer, 
and on leaving the door tendered her his arm, 
when to his surprise and mortification she de- 
clined it. He was so confounded, that making 
her a bow, he was about to retreat, when, calling 
him back, she explained to him the custom of 
the country, on which he apologised and walked 
by her side. This needless piece of refinement 
takes place in the middle and southern States. In 
New England, they manage things better. But 
let me state matters fairly. In Virginia, where 
the ladies are so exceedingly precise, that they 
will scarcely stop to speak a word to a gentleman 
in the street, they are unreserved within doors. 
I could not but be pleased when on entering a 
room to which I had before been introduced, the 
girls rose and offered me their hands in the kind- 



THE WOMEN. 



71 



est, frankest manner. The Virginians are all 
partial, and with reason, to a friendly shake of 
the hand. I must not dismiss the subject of 
walking without adding that their gait is ungrace- 
ful. A swing of the arm, one of the worst faults, 
is very common. Instead of stepping " on the 
light, fantastic toe," they seem as if they imitat- 
ed the witches in Tarn o'Shanter, on whom the 
music operated so as to " put life and mettle in 
their heels." Yet though the American ladies 
must rank far below those of Spain, who are con- 
sidered to be the most elegant walkers in Europe, 
they are I think equal to the English, for though 
their gait is different, it is not more faulty. 

The education of females in America is incom- 
plete. Reading, writing, arithmetic, grammar, 
and geography, with a smattering of French, and 
a few lessons in music and dancing, are all that 
even with the wealthiest are commonly thought 
necessary for their daughters. Now it appears 
to me that a popular knowledge of astronomy, 
chemistry and electricity might properly be add- 
ed, with perhaps the elements of the higher 
branches of mathematics : and if a taste for moral 
and physical philosophy could be infused, it 
would have its use in checking that propensity 
to novel-reading which now so unfortunately pre- 



72 



THE WOMEN. 



vails to the exclusion of more profitable matter. 
The state of education in New England is supe- 
rior to what I have mentioned above, Latin be- 
ing made in that district part of a young lady's 
studies, though in my opinion with little pro- 
priety. I am not of Milton's opinion that one 
tongue is enough for a woman, except in the sense 
in which I think that the remark applies to a man. 
Doubtless many persons acquainted only with 
their vernacular language, are more intelligent 
and sensible than vast numbers of others more 
learned; yet there is so much pleasure derivable 
from the study of other languages, that I wish 
women as well as men to be partakers of it. But 
then a question occurs as to the superior utility 
of ancient or modern languages. To satisfy our- 
selves on this point, we must consider that the 
ancient languages are of far less importance than 
they were two centuries ago, when no informa- 
tion was to be gained but through their medium. 
We delight to read of the acquisitions of the 
beautiful, unfortunate Lady Jane Grey, of Queen 
Elizabeth, and of the daughters of Sir Thomas 
More. How interesting it is to find the Lady 
Jane giving as a reason for absenting herself from 
a party of pleasure, that the perusal of Plato gave 
her more delight than they could possibly feel 
from all their sport and gaiety ! But had she lived 



THE WOMEN. 



73 



at a later period, she might have experienced a 
kindred feeling from authors of her own country, 
and have learnt Plato's arguments in an English 
translation. It is true that many beauties are 
generally lost in a translation, from the impossi- 
bility of infusing them into another language; 
but when we take into account the circumstance 
that the substance and general outline are usu- 
ally faithfully preserved, and that no new works 
are published in Latin and Greek, we shall pro- 
bably be led to the conclusion, that a young la- 
dy's time is more improved by mastering Italian 
and German. To one engaged in composition, 
an intimate acquaintance with the classics is in- 
valuable ; but to a lady who desires only to cul- 
tivate her faculties to such a degree as to render 
herself agreeable to others, and able to pass her 
time alone without experiencing the absence of 
company as an intolerable privation, of how much 
less importance are they than the works of mo- 
dern writers! There are so few occasions for a 
woman to make use of classical attainments in 
company (besides the danger of subjecting her- 
self to the imputation of pedantry), that I be- 
lieve few women ever derive any benefit from 
the study of the dead languages. I know an En- 
glishwoman who is well versed in Greek, who in 
a company of learned men where the discourse 



74 



THE WOMEN. 



turned on Greek literature, had not courage to 
take part in it lest she shoul d be thought defi- 
cient in modesty ; though she would have felt lit- 
tle or no scruple had the topic been the litera- 
ture of France or Italy. Another point worth 
considering is, whether the works of Roman and 
Greek authors, defiled as they too generally are 
by impurities unfit for the eye of a chaste maid- 
en, are suitable to form the basis of instruction 
in female schools. It will be said that many En- 
glish authors are quite as exceptionable, and 
some French authors more so. But in spite of 
this, most productions of recent date may be ta- 
ken up without fear of raising a blush on the cheek 
of modesty; and from those of an earlier period 
a good selection may be made. We have indeed 
of late seen the mighty genius of Byron prosti- 
tuted to the base purpose of pandering to the 
corrupt appetites of sensualists, but we have at 
the same time seen a manifestation of public feel- 
ing hostile to such degradation of intellect. To 
the credit of the American ladies be it record- 
ed, that since the character of Don Juan has 
become known, it has been proscribed. Their 
good sense and native modesty have made them 
refuse to read it. Upon the whole then, I am 
brought to the conclusion, that a change in the 
system of female education may be properly 



THE WOMEN. 



75 



made in New England, and that in the southern 
and middle States some considerable additions 
are requisite. With a more enlarged education, 
and some increase of latitude in their acquaint- 
ance with the gentlemen in the same sphere as 
themselves, they will become more conspicuously 
beneficial to their country. That their present 
influence is inadequate to the production of all 
the improvement in society which they are ca- 
pable of effecting, is evident from one simple cir- 
cumstance. They are universally averse to the 
practice of chewing tobacco, and yet cannot per- 
suade their friends of the other sex to disconti- 
nue it. 

The female poor are reared with more modest 
feelings than the same class in Europe. This I 
give as the general case, deferring a considera- 
tion of the exceptions to it to a future chapter 
where it will be more in place. In no instance, 
either at a public or private house, was I shown 
to my bed-room by a female servant ; and consi- 
dering the character of chamber-maids in Eng- 
land, I think the Americans have done right in 
establishing a custom different to ours. The 
daughters of the petty traders are in much the 
same condition as those in England. They are 
more retired but less animated. They are not 



76 



THE WOMEN. 



so much employed as shopmaids as is desirable; 
hence they find it difficult to obtain suitable situ- 
ations. The case is different in France, and so it I 
ought to be in England and America. To put 
poor girls to learn millinery, is to put their virtue 
to a strong test. Fondness for dress is the natu- 
ral result of employing girls in making dresses ; 
their wages are insufficient to its indulgence, and 
they too often become the victims of the wealthy 
seducer : but millinery is almost the only occu- 
pation except servitude which their parents can 
get for them. This is a disadvantage. Why 
should not women act as clerks in counting- 
houses ? They are competent to the required du- 
ties, and would be quite in a becoming station. 
Why should they not be taught surgery, at least 
that part of it relative to parturition ? In short, 
there are a variety of employments from which 
custom excludes them, though on insufficient 
grounds, which they would be glad to follow if 
public opinion were not at variance with their 
own. The hardship is more felt in America than 
with us, from the paucity of manufactories re- 
quiring female help. I am now alluding to the 
town population. In country villages, more es- 
pecially in the western parts, spinning and weav- 
ing are done at home. 



; 



CHAPTER VI. 



DOMESTIC LIFE. 

It is remarked by Hume, in one of the notes in 
his History of England, that as luxury spreads, 
the hours of rising and of meals become later ; 
and that this takes place in all countries. In 
America, early hours are general with all ranks, 
a proof that luxury has not yet had so much 
baneful influence as in Europe. The ball, be- 
ginning at midnight and ending at daylight, is 
unknown ; when one is given, it is seldom con- 
tinued to an unseasonable hour. Some of the 
fashionable follies are altogether alien, and it is 
to be hoped will so continue. The Americans 
are eminently a domestic people, and conse- 
quently a happy people ; for notwithstanding all 
that may be urged in favour of midnight assem- 
blies, where the young may display the charms 
of person and the elegance of dress, it is un- 
questionable, that purer happiness is to be found 
in the quiet domestic circle. The excitement 
of spirits produced by the former, is like the 
waves of the ocean, rising high for a moment, 
then sinking below the medium level ; that of 



78 



DOMESTIC LIFE. 



the latter, is like the waters of a lake, seldom 
swelling beyond the natural limits, but always 
smooth, clear, and reflecting the light of heaven. 
He, whose home has not more attractions for 
him than extraneous pleasures, is in a distem- 
pered state, and needs a moral physician. 

From the familiar intercourse I maintained 
with several families, I had the opportunity of 
entering their houses at any time, without being 
treated as a formal visiter ; the most agreeable 
mode by far to me, and certainly the best to 
get an insight into the real character and habits 
of the people. The breakfast hour may be fixed 
at eight o'clock for cities, and something earlier 
for the country. Those who are fond of a sub- 
stantial breakfast should visit the United States, 
though the Scotch and the French would pro- 
bably prefer such a one as they find at home. 
Coffee is the usual beverage. For eatables, be- 
sides rolls and eggs, broiled fish, beef-steaks, 
ham, and sausages are placed on the table ; and 
in Connecticut, cheesecake and pumpkin-pie, 
with cyder to drink. Buck-wheat cakes are in 
much estimation as a winter diet. I tried to be 
pleased with them, but all in vain, and fancied 
they did not suit my stomach. In Virginia, 
small cakes of wheat flour are almost universal, 



DOMESTIC LIFE. 79 

instead of the solid loaf. The natives being 
partial to them hot, a fresh supply is brought 
in during the middle of the meal. Cakes made 
of maize are also in great request amongst them, 
as well as a pudding of the same material mixed 
with eggs. Both these are considered very 
wholesome ; but those whose palates are unused 
to them seldom find them agreeable at first. 

Dinner takes place at two, or seldom later 
than three o'clock, and nearly corresponds with 
ours. Soups are in much use. In Virginia and 
Carolina, solid joints of meat are less frequently- 
seen, than fowls with ham and greens. Turkies 
are very common. I cannot say much in praise 
of their cookery. When I first landed, I fancied 
that every article on table was inferior to what 
I had been accustomed to at home ; further ex- 
perience convinced me, that the difference was 
mainly occasioned by the cookery. The Ame- 
ricans should take a few lessons from the French 
on this valuable science. They are particularly 
unskilful in making pastry. The pie is baked 
in a shallow dish so that it has no syrup. I did 
not taste a single fruit pie of prime quality. 
The wines commonlv taken, are Claret in sum- 
mer, and Madeira in winter. Dr. Johnson said 
that he could abstain from wine, but that when 



80 



DOMESTIC LIFE. 



he took it, he liked a copious draught. The 
Americans are more rational. The decanters 
are frequently removed with the cloth ; if not, 
seldom above two or three glasses are drank 
after, as they are not, like the English, in the 
habit of sitting for an hour or two passing the 
bottle round ; and it is earnestly to be desired 
that they never may. It is expensive, injurious 
to health, and deprives us of the company of 
" the sex whose presence civilizes ours." They 
never urge their guests to take more than is 
agreeable. O ! that the Scotch, many of whom 
in the middle rank of life are prone to jollity, 
would generally imitate them in this. True po- 
liteness seems to dictate, that each should be 
left to his own free inclination. Though in this 
particular I approve the Americans, I think 
they might make their dinners more comfort- 
able than they do. Where is the necessity of 
eating so rapidly, as to distance an Englishman 
to a degree quite perplexing ? Their country- 
man Count Rumford gave them a lesson on this 
point, which has been apparently quite neglect- 
ed. He knew that to enjoy a dinner properly, 
to obtain the flavour of the different dishes, it 
was necessary to eat slowly ; and as our appe- 
tites are given us to be enjoyed with moderation 
and thankfulness, why should we deprive our- 



DOMESTIC LIFE. 



81 



selves of gratifications resulting from their right 
use ? To prove how little the Americans un- 
derstand the art of enjoying a dinner, it is only 
necessary to mention, that they take two or 
three sorts of vegetables on to the plate at once, 
thus losing the peculiar taste of each. The 
French and Spanish plan, of eating vegetables 
after meat, is preferable to this. While men- 
tioning the dinner, let me add that the rivers 
abound with fish, some of which are not to be 
found in our waters, amongst which the Bass 
deserves distinction, from its being both deli- 
cate and substantial. The Sturgeon, so rare 
with us, is so plentiful with them, that the citi- 
zens of New York and Baltimore disregard it. 
The Virginians are better judges. The table is 
tolerably well supplied with game during the 
season, though they have no hares. Canvas- 
back ducks are shot by sportsmen in great num- 
bers. Their flavour is so delicious, that they 
ought to be transported to our side of the At- 
lantic. But if I continue longer on the luxuries 
of the table, I shall be suspected for a second 
Apicius. I confess I am not enough of a Trap- 
pist, to think that these matters are beneath 
my notice. Hilarity is often as much promoted 
by a good dinner, as by an amusing tale : on 
that ground therefore, I may be excused for 

G 



82 



DOMESTIC LIFE. 



the particulars I have given. I can fare hard 
without grumbling, when need requires y but 
when I meet with a good dinner, I like to eat 
it with a relish. I was surprised in Maryland 
and Virginia, to see a young lady's plate co- 
vered with a profusion, which with us would be 
considered fit only for a ploughman ; but I af- 
terwards noticed that it was customary never to 
clear the plate, I suppose under the notion of 
gentility. Of course, I must have been re- 
garded as of vulgar habits, before I found this 
out, being in the habit of leaving nothing but 
bones, unless when over plentifully helped. The 
reason of my not at first noticing it, was owing 
to my having been in several States where the 
custom was quite different before I entered Mary- 
land ; and I had ceased to make such particular 
observation as I at first did, supposing that I 
had already learnt exactly how to conform. 
The dessert consists of fruits according to the 
season. Peaches and melons are abundant ; 
and the apples are of a particularly fine flavour. 
Cherries, gooseberries and strawberries are in- 
ferior to the same fruits in England ; and the 
grapes are too poor to be worth notice to those 
persons who have eaten the grapes of France or 
Portugal. 



DOMESTIC LIFE. 



83 



Tea, in which supper is included, is taken at 
six or seven o'clock. It is in general not quite 
so substantial as breakfast, but with a vast va- 
riety. Preserved fruits, in which they excel, 
are commonly on table, except during the sea- 
son for ripe fruit, when a variety of delicious 
garden productions tempts the palate. Thin 
bread and butter is seldom met with ; for no- 
thing solid being taken after, the repast is more 
substantial than with us. Hard and soft bis- 
cuits and toast are usually part of it. The lat- 
ter article is sometimes soaked in milk ; but in 
this state it was far from palatable to me. With 
respect to this meal, what always surprised me 
was, though I never ventured to hint such a 
thing, that they should place such incongruous 
articles on table together : oysters and sweet 
cakes, strawberries and cheese placed side by 
side ! I at first stared with wonder, and could 
not but regard as passing strange, that Milton's 
description of Eve, should never have caught 
the eye of one of her fair American daughters. 
He represents her, 

" With hospitable thoughts intent, 
What choice to mix for delicacy best, 
What order so contrived as not to mix 
Tastes not well joined, inelegant, but bring 
Taste after taste, upheld by kindliest change." 
G 2 



84 



DOMESTIC LIFE. 



All sit round the table at the evening meal as 
well as at breakfast, except when there is a vi- 
siting party, in which case the servant hands 
the cups round to the company. In summer 
time, so great are the swarms of flies, that it is 
usual for much of the servant's time to be oc- 
cupied in driving them off the table with a fly- 
flap. 

I met with only two or three instances of 
supper being taken as a separate meal after tea. 
One was at a gentleman's house in Pennsylvania, 
and was I suspected partly in compliment to me 
as an Englishman ; for he had been in England 
when a boy, and knew the habits of our middle 
classes. Another was in the family of a New 
York merchant, who told me it was an esta- 
blished custom with him. 

I know that many of my countrymen after 
reading this account of American meals, will 
infer that the Americans are far from being a 
refined people. Such an inference would how- 
ever be incorrect. No two nations correspond 
in all things in ideas and habits. Several of our 
habits are offensive to the French, and several 
of theirs to us. The Turks and the Persians 
are opposite in many things. Yet all value 



DOMESTIC LIFE. 



85 



themselves on their superiority to their neigh- 
bours. The Americans in my opinion, may lay 
claim to at least as much refinement as our- 
selves ; in some particulars they have certainly 
more. 

After tea, an hour or two often passes agree- 
ably in conversation. Some of the happiest time 
I experienced, during my abode in the United 
States, was in evening conversation parties. What 
are routs, and balls, and assemblies, and music 
meetings, compared with free discourse on lite- 
rary or other improving topics ? Every one has 
his favourite pursuit or diversion, and I like one 
of an intellectual kind. I recur to some of these 
evening conversations, with a feeling consonant 
to that brought by the remembrance of youthful 
days, when all was gaiety and pleasure ; but 
heightened in the present case by rationality. 
One such evening I had at the house of the 
Secretary of war at Washington. One of the 
judges of the Supreme Court of the United States 
was present part of the time. The Secretary, 
who as I was assured, has risen solely by his ta- 
lents, is a man of comprehensive mind, and of 
deportment truly gentlemanly. His counte- 
nance, which I wished to study more than I had 
opportunity to do, bears as strikingly the im- 



86 



DOMESTIC LIFE. 



press of thought as any one of Lavater's imagi- 
nary faces. The features are not exactly regular ; 
but in their combination they are admirable. 
His small eyes twinkle under his dark, thick eye- 
brows, speaking intelligence. His forehead, 
though not bold, is marked by prominences in- 
dicative of the reasoning faculty. His small 
mouth and chin seem formed to express amiabi- 
lity. Perhaps I might say, that not one of the 
features except the chin, is handsome ; yet I saw 
only two other faces in the whole country, that 
I thought equally expressive of superior intel- 
lect, one, that of a Virginian Senator in Congress 
seventy years old, the other that of the Chief 
Justice of the United States, also an old man. The 
Secretary I took to be about forty, rather under 
than over. He heard all my objections to the 
American Constitution with admirable patience, 
taking care to correct me when in error. He 
made various enquiries respecting England, 
which it gave me pleasure to answer. I met him 
in the street some time after, and apologised for 
the latitude of my remarks, which on reflection 
appeared to me greater than I was justified in 
having used. He assured me that I had given 
him no offence, that he did not expect foreign- 
ers to view their institutions as they did, and 
that he was glad to have heard my opinions. 



DOMESTIC LIFE. 



87 



For his candour and condescension I thus pub- 
licly thank him. 

Several other of my evenings at Washington 
are remembered by me with pleasure, particu- 
larly two or three at the houses of some of the 
Presbyterian clergy. One of them was a young 
man of literary taste married to a pleasing Vir- 
ginian lady : with them I kept up an animated 
conversation to a late hour. Another was one 
of whose company I had but little, he having 
some indispensable engagements ; but his wife 
manifested such a sweet and catholic spirit, that 
I took leave of her with a strong feeling of 
esteem. She was very desirous that I should 
form a proper estimate of the American charac- 
ter. I hope it will be found that I have been 
successful in this respect ; and if so, I may part- 
ly thank her for it, as she gave me considerable 
information. At the house of a third, who is a 
Scotchman by birth, I met a Cherokee Indian 
who has embraced the Christian faith. We ex- 
changed information respecting the Indians and 
the English, and were I believe mutually pleased. 
I am sure at least that I was. He invited me 
to meet some of their chiefs who had come to 
the city on a mission from their own tribe. I 
gladly assented, and was introduced to two of 



88 



DOMESTIC LIFE. 



the shrewdest looking men I ever saw. Another, 
the brother of my companion, was more digni- 
fied, and not so easily read. They behaved like 
men under some feeling of restraint, occasioned 
no doubt by their endeavour to conform to ci- 
vilized habits ; but I soon set them more at ease, 
and enjoyed to witness their manners. The 
evening passed off quite lively. 

I spent an evening at the house of a clergy- 
man at Richmond, which was very interesting. 
He is considered one of the most learned men 
in that city and its neighbourhood. His wife 
had an unusual share of animation ; and several 
young ladies of cultivated minds were of the 
party. We touched on divinity, poetry, national 
characters and other subjects, in a cursory but en- 
livening manner, and separated in good humour. 
These different visits tended more and more to 
confirm my favourable opinion of the Americans. 
After mentioning so many different evenings, it 
is proper to add, that in the southern States, it 
is customary for the heads of the family and all 
of advanced years, to retire into an adjoining 
room, leaving the young to enter into convers- 
ation, without that restraint which is always felt 
in the presence of their elders. In the middle 
and northern States, this separation is less com- 



DOMESTIC LIFE. 



89 



mon, though a little reflection may show its pro- 
priety. There is a passage, if I remember right- 
ly, in Hurdis's Adriano illustrative of this. 

Besides evenings like those I have described, 
where no formality is used, and no other restraint 
than that required by decorum, they have their 
dress and card parties. A gentleman in Phila- 
delphia, from whom I had received various marks 
of kindness, requested me to call on him one 
evening, as he wished to introduce me to some 
of his friends. Without letting me know before- 
hand what sort of a company I was to meet, he 
took me to one of these dress-parties. When I 
entered the room and perceived about a dozen 
ladies in full dress, I felt a little confused. My 
shoes were not very clean ; and my face was not 
so smooth as usual, owing to the razor I had 
used in the morning, being out of order. And 
when my name was mentioned, with the addi- 
tion of my being an Englishman, I was in worse 
condition, owing to the eyes of all being turned 
towards me. What was to be done ? To retreat 
was impossible. To apologise, would cause some 
to notice me still more minutely. I therefore 
placed myself, as quickly as I decently could, 
in one corner of the room, where I thought I 
should escape attention, and began conversing 



90 



DOMESTIC LIFE. 



with a young lady near me. However I was 
soon obliged to change my seat, and considering 
that the appearance of embarrassment was un- 
pleasant, I put a good face upon things, and 
enjoyed myself probably nearly as much, as if I 
had gone fully prepared for company. Formal 
visiting parties have never had charms for me ; 
but in the present case, the great variety of the 
entertainment, and the smiles of the fair, served 
to pass the evening pleasantly. Lemonade, wine 
of different sorts, ice-creams, and spirituous com- 
pounds, were handed round, as well as straw- 
berries, raspberries, preserved peaches, sweet 
cakes and other delicious articles. The party 
broke up about eleven o'clock. On two similar 
occasions at New York, I was nearly as awk- 
wardly circumstanced ; but I found that a cheer- 
ful spirit carried me through with little diffi- 
culty. Why should we suffer mortification to 
supersede pleasure, when all around are gay? 
Birds whose feathers are plain, sing not the less 
lively tunes, for being in company with others of 
beautiful plumage. 

It is very common in a summer's evening af- 
ter the heat has subsided, for persons to sit at 
their doors to enjoy the cool breezes. A walk 
at such a time through a village or small town 



DOMESTIC LIFE. 



91 



is quite enlivening. The ladies are often in 
their best dresses, generally in white, and seem 
to take pleasure in showing the utmost good hu- 
mour and hilarity to the gentlemen who stop to 
chat with them. This custom has in it some- 
thing of a patriarchal or oriental character, es- 
pecially in Virginia, where a stranger who re- 
ceives entertainment has to wait while the cakes 
are made and baked. Perhaps in no part of the 
domestic life of the Americans, is there any thing 
in which their sociability and amiability are more 
apparent than in their summer evening parties. 
How delightful it is to witness the general cheer- 
fulness ! To an Englishman it is very amusing 
to listen to the conversation of a party sitting 
outside of the door, and at the same time watch 
the motions of the fire-flies, whose phosphoric 
scintillations give the air a curious appearance. 



CHAPTER VII. 

SPIRIT OF CONVERSATION. 

A stranger in America may soon perceive that , 
conversation has not been much studied as an 
art. The Americans converse sensibly and ra- 
tionally ; but they appear to have no ambition 
to attract attention by clever, smart, or witty say- 
ings, like the French, or by throwing a fictitious 
interest over common matters by sentimental re- 
finement, like the Germans. Like a gently-flow- 
ing limpid brook, their conversation has no tur- - 
bulence, but shows every thing at the bottom at 
a glance. That it is deficient in energy and ani- 
mation, will from this at once be conceived. It 
produces a feeling akin to that experienced by 
every one who sits down to enjoy rest after fa- 
tigue. Now I am one of those, who admire in 
preference, a more spirit-stirring sensation. The 
vehemence of the Irish is more to my taste than 
the calmness of the Americans. During my stay 
amongst them, I met not with a single indivi- 
dual whose colloquial talents were such as I 
should denominate first-rate ; though there were 
several whom I greatly admired for one or an- 
other good quality. A lawyer at Norfolk in Vir- 



SPIRIT OF CONVERSATION. 



93 



ginia, to whom I had an introductory letter, 
showed an aptness of illustration very pleasing, 
and from a minute acquaintance with polite lite- 
rature, was qualified to excel if he had been 
placed in the midst of a society of kindred minds. 
A clergyman in Philadelphia to whom also I had 
a letter, was more animated than most. He 
could keep the ball moving when once struck 
by another hand. A judge whom I met at Har- 
risburg was a good punster, and knew how to 
cause a smile by curious illustrations. He was 
attached to poetry, and could press allusions to 
it into his service so as to enliven discourse 
•agreeably. But of all whom it was my fortune 
to hear, I give the first place to a man whom I 
met at a tavern at Providence in Rhode Island. 
He was neither learned nor witty, but had so 
great a share of pleasantry joined to so much in- 
genuity in argument, that he kept the whole 
company listening as if afraid to lose a syllable. 
I grappled with him once or twice, but he slip- 
ped from my grasp like an eel, instantly making 
two or three involutions in his own sophisms, 
before I could tell where he had escaped to. 
He was a Connecticut man, a circumstance 
which I mention, as the people of that state are 
regarded by the Virginians as deficient in fancy, 
and probably with considerable truth as compar- 



9* 



SPIRIT OF CONVERSATION. 



ed with themselves. If conversation be better 
practised in one State than another, I am inclin- 
ed to think that that State is Virginia. 

The colloquial topics introduced into Ameri- 
can circles are too few. Politics engross too 
much attention : polite literature too little. The 
merits of the last new poem may be discussed; 
the beauties of a novel may be expatiated on ; 
but if a person ventures to introduce higher sub- 
jects, he subjects himself to be branded for a pe- 
dant. In mixed companies, it is indeed proper 
and almost necessary, to exclude abstruse sub- 
jects; but when a select party of educated per- 
sons takes place/ a wide and nearly boundless 
range may be suitably allowed. The question 
as to the next governor or president, how impor- 
tant soever to the community, is not the one best 
adapted for mental improvement or social delight. 
The ephemeral productions of the press, are com- 
monly less interesting than those of permanent 
reputation. It may therefore be advantageous 
to society in America, when the fear of the im- 
putation of pedantry, will no longer prevail to 
the exclusion of topics of more importance, re- 
quiring some intellectual exertion. Of course it 
must not be supposed, that such matters are now 
proscribed entirely. All that I wish to convey 
is, that it seems to be regarded as treason to 



SPIRIT OF CONVERSATION. 



95 



good behaviour, to descant on subjects in corn- 
pan}', which may chance to be tedious or dis- 
agreeable to some of those present, and that this 
fastidiousness is injurious to the spirit of conver- 
sation, and tends to damp the ardour of the 
youthful mind. In a circle exclusively literary, 
the shackles are broken, and the spirit roams at 
large. 

Of the scrupulosity used in promiscuous com- 
pany, let me mention an instance or two, illus- 
trative of what I have stated. We were on one 
occasion conversing in a desultory manner, when 
the French Revolution was alluded to. A gen- 
tleman who sat next to me, whispered something 
about the Pursuits of Literature, as if fearful the 
ladies should condemn him for rudeness, for 
making reference to a book, which they might 
reasonably be supposed never to have seen. If 
he had wished to call my attention to any doc- 
trine in Helvetius or Malebranche, I should 
have approved his discretion j but I confess it 
seems scarcely consonant to proper respect for 
our company, to suppose that the mention of a 
work like the Pursuits of Literature, a work 
containing no elaborate disquisitions, should be 
regarded as displeasing. On another occasion, 
I was in a company consisting of more than a 



96 



SPIRIT OF CONVERSATION. 



dozen educated persons, at least sufficiently edu- 
cated to enter on an examination of many im- 
proving and interesting matters, when for two 
hours, I heard not a single remark worth remem- 
bering. The only thing beyond mere chit-chat, 
was a little talk on the war between France and 
Spain, and that was soon dismissed. In one 
pretty large company to which I was invited, I 
resolved to try the experiment of deviating from 
the beaten track. The consequence was, that 
as the prospect enlarged we felt sensations of a 
new kind, like the man who, as Milton expresses 
it, in populous city pent, finds every object in a 
rural walk delightful. After the company broke 
up, a gentleman came and thanked me for the 
gratification he had experienced, assuring me 
that it was quite a novelty. Neither he nor any 
other person would have ventured to make such 
an inroad on established customs. It is evident 
therefore, that the regulations for conversation 
may be relaxed with benefit. I believe that not 
a single person in the company, male or female, 
regretted the change. All appeared pleased, and 
I doubt not were so. 

I wish however in this point to be clearly un- 
derstood. I am not so cynical as to condemn all 
trifling, nor so circumscribed in my ideas, as to 



SPIRIT OF CONVERSATION. 



97 



suppose that we should always be philosophizing. 
Human life is made up of little things, and if a 
smile can be called forth by something insignifi- 
cant in itself, it is surely folly to be always aim- 
ing at objects of magnitude. But then, I am 
opposed to the disposition to confine the conver- 
sations of adults, to the limits of children's capa- 
city. And I wish when conversation fit for men 
is introduced, that it should neither be tiresome 
nor heartless. Good conversation, like gener- 
ous wine, cheers the spirits and invigorates the 
frame. 

Perhaps there is no part of conversation in 
which the Americans are more deficient, than in 
the art of telling a tale. Like a painter who is 
unskilled in perspective, they fail in giving due 
relief: the inferior and subordinate parts become 
too conspicuous. All this I can excuse ; but 
there is one thing which I must condemn. Some 
words have two or three meanings, and when it 
happens that one of them conveys an idea of 
something vulgar, or of something too gross for 
polite ears, it must not according to their delicate 
notions be used at all ! I cannot with propriety 
cite examples ; but a little consideration will be 
sufficient to understand me. In most European 
countries, if my information be correct, some 

H 



OS 



SPIRIT OF CONVERSATION. 



things are too often called by plain names. But 
when there is nothing in expressions to raise the 
blush of modesty, or offend the ear of chastity, 
or violate correct taste, it seems preposterous to 
reject them, merely because, if used in another 
sense than that in which they are obviously ap- 
plied, they would convey a disagreeable idea. 
Unless an attention to delicacy be observed in 
conversation, it is evident that there cannot long 
remain that happy familiarity between the young 
of both sexes, which conduces so greatly to their 
mutual improvement. But when under the idea 
of delicacy, words are proscribed simply because 
they have two senses, one of them being such 
as no person would use in company, the very 
evil sought to be avoided is liable to be produc- 
ed. But this is not all. Such is the refinement 
of language in America, that an Englishman ac- 
customed to genteel life, and taught to use the 
most polished phrases, may use expressions 
which in England would be suffered in any so- 
ciety, but which in America would subject him 
to the imputation of vulgarity. I was apprised 
of this circumstance by an intelligent Scotch- 
man, who has resided some years at Baltimore, 
and who related some humourous instances, that 
had come under his own observation. Feeling 
myself unwilling to offend, I became very care- 



SPIRIT OF CONVERSATION. 99 

fill in the selection of my words. But it some- 
times happened, that I inadvertently used such 
as are considered unwarrantable. To apologise 
for them would only have added to the error ; 
I was therefore several times obliged to hint, 
that different practices prevailed in the two coun- 
tries in reference to the use of words. With all 
the care I used, I may sometimes have trans- 
gressed. What Englishman for example, would 
have an idea of there being an impropriety in 
remarking of a lady, that she has a well-shaped 
ancle ? Yet this would be too gross for American 
ears ; while to say that she had a handsome leg, 
would be intolerable. Even to make mention 
Of a shirt is enough to subject a person to the 
charge of vulgarity and indelicacy. It is how- 
ever to be noted, that it is principally in the 
southern States, that so much squeamishness is 
apparent. The Scotchman whom I just men- 
tioned, gave me some specimens of this sort of 
squeamishness so exceedingly ludicrous, that I 
should like to repeat them, if real delicacy did 
not forbid. Several nearly equal to them, were 
shown in different companies where I was pre- 
sent, but they must not be put into print. What 
would Dean Swift have said to such things ? A 
little observation may satisfy any one, that the 
most fastidious are not always the most refined, 
h 2 



100 SPIRIT OP CONVERSATION'. 



Swift was neither the one nor the other. His 
pleasure was to revile human nature, by repre- 
senting man as fond of grossness as a hog of wal- 
lowing in mire ; yet his satiric shaft sometimes 
aimed at the opposite extreme. He would have 
found fine quarry in the fashionable circles of 
Virginia and Carolina. 

As the strictness which I have mentioned must 
be observed in conversation, so must it be at- 
tended to in reading to a company from any po- 
pular author. I unwittingly subjected myself 
once or twice to a glance of surprise, for read- 
ing passages perfectly unexceptionable. I be- 
lieve that no difficulty would be felt in an Eng- 
lish circle with any of Walter Scott's poems, but 
there are several passages in Marmion and the 
Lady of the Lake which it would be unadvisable 
to read to American ladies. The animated 
stanza in Burns's Vision beginning, 

" Down flowed her robe,, a tartan sheen/' 

is one which I was obliged to skip lest I should 
be guilty of offending. I cannot believe that any 
necessity exists for the upholding of so much 
scrupulosity, though I should be exceedingly 
reluctant to forego the advantages of that seem- 
ly delicacy, without which conversation becomes 



SPIRIT OF CONVERSATION. 



101 



offensive, leaving like the slime of the snail the 
track of impurity. 

But whatever may be the defects and errors 
of American conversation, it would be unjust to 
deny it the praise of decorum. Great care is 
taken to avoid hurting the feelings of any one. 
When a dissentient opinion is expressed, it is 
done with mildness. That bold and decisive 
opposition, which has been supposed part of the 
national character of the English, is rejected as 
being too rude for civilization. I speak of the edu- 
cated part of the community, but with some qua- 
lification it applies to the whole. In no country 
probably, taking the people in their collective 
capacity, is there more decorum in conversation, 
than in the United States. 



CHAPTER VIII. 

INTELLIGENCE. 

The Americans have a current saying, that they 
are the most enlightened people on earth, and 
Congress actually passed a resolution to that ef- 
fect many years ago ! What a people assert of 
themselves is entitled to attention. Let us there- 
fore examine how far we may yield credence 
to this assertion. 

That the Americans in proportion to their 
numbers, have not so many learned and scientific 
men as several European countries, is a position 
that will scarcely be disputed, even by them- 
selves. Their meaning therefore must be, ei- 
ther, that the mass of people have more inform- 
ation diffused among them, than the mass of 
other nations, or, that there is in the lower and 
middling classes, a greater proportion of enlight* 
ened minds, than is to be found in other lands, 
To ascertain the correctness of these opinions, 
we must know the extent and state of education. 
In the northern and middle States, the rudu 
ments of learning are communicated to most of 
the poor ; but in Virginia, Maryland and North 



INTELLIGENCE. 



103 



Carolina, different indeed is the state of things ; 
for ignorance prevails to a lamentable extent. 
Even in Pennsylvania, where great attention has 
been given to the education of the poor, instruc- 
tion is not given to all. This I learnt from the 
Report for the present year 1823, of the control- 
lers of one of the school districts in that State. 
But supposing that education were more general 
than it is, it would not prove the Americans to 
be a more enlightened people than the Germans 
or the Scotch, as the proper criterion is, how the 
little acquired at school, is improved afterwards. 
Children may be taught to read and write ; but 
unless they use their attainments, the benefit is 
nearly nugatory. In New York and Philadel- 
phia, possibly in one or two other places, there 
are libraries for the special use of Apprentices. 
I examined one of them, and was pleased to find 
a, very judicious selection from practical and 
standard English authors. But in villages and 
small towns, almost the only book read is the 
Bible. The newspapers circulated are however 
exceedingly numerous ; so that I believe the 
poor are generally well informed on subjects of 
domestic policy. From their migratory habits, 
they are also tolerably well acquainted with the 
geography of the country. But on other sub- 
jects, they are as ignorant as the poor of Spain 



104< INTELLIGENCE. 

or Russia, though certainly not quite so super- 
stitious. 

The degree of intelligence amongst the mid- 
dling class, is not equal to what might be sup- 
posed from the state of the poor. This I shall 
endeavour to make manifest by a few facts. Al- 
bany, the seat of the government of New York, 
containing a population of 12,000 souls, had not, 
when I was there, a single circulating library. 
A bookseller told me that he had it in contem- 
plation to establish one; but what must we think 
of a town with so large a population being with- 
out one ? Certainly we may infer that the en- 
lightened state the Americans boast of, is not 
very brilliant. At Richmond, the seat of the 
government of Virginia, I found a small li- 
brary of valuable books by authors of the last 
century, but scarcely any published during the 
present ; the fact being, that the subscriptions 
are only sufficient to pay the librarian's salary 
and the rent of the room : at least, I could ob- 
tain no other solution of its stagnant state. What 
few books there were, seemed to have been lit- 
tle read, I remained in the room several hours, 
and only one person came to exchange a volume 
during the whole time. In Philadelphia there 
is a good public library, and an establishment 



INTELLIGENCE. 



105 



called the Atheneum where periodicals are taken 
in ; but the two united, would not equal the 
provision for literary appetite, in some Euro- 
pean towns of half the size. In New York there 
are several small libraries, one of which belong- 
ing to the Historical Society, has a collection as 
judiciously made, as is perhaps possible to be 
found any where. But the state of literature in 
that city is evidently below that of Philadelphia 
and Boston, and far below what I should expect 
in the commercial metropolis of the most en- 
lightened people upon earth. Baltimore has 
two libraries, but neither of them large. The 
colleges at Schenectady and Providence have 
libraries quite inadequate to a first-rate educa- 
tion. On the whole, there are not so many li- 
terary establishments in the United States, as to 
manifest a high degree of mental culture. The 
only place which appeared to me to be properly 
furnished with a literary establishment, is Bos- 
ton ; for though Philadelphia has, as I have 
mentioned, a good library, besides a reading 
room where the periodical journals may be seen, 
and a scientific library belonging to a public in- 
stitution, yet when the population of that city is 
taken into account, the means of gaining im- 
provement appear comparatively small. With 
respect to science, not being myself of a scien- 



106 



INTELLIGENCE. 



tific turn, it may be supposed that I did not 
make sufficient enquiries to give an opinion on 
it. I shall therefore only state, that I visited se- 
veral scientific institutions, which so far as I 
could judge, were generally on a level with those 
of a literary nature. 

From what has been stated, it will be readily 
inferred, that I attribute to national vanity, the 
high opinion of the Americans respecting them- 
selves. This vanity doubtless originated in their 
successful struggle for independence, and for- 
mation of republican constitutions ; and the mass 
of the people are so ignorant of the real state of 
other countries, that it is not wonderful that the 
delusion should continue. But why do I say 
the mass of the people ? Even amongst those 
who rank themselves, whatever others may do, 
with the educated class, I met with numbers 
betraying ignorance disgraceful to a school-boy. 
Many would not believe that there is a free press 
in England. One man was almost in a passion 
with me, for saying that the press is as free in 
England, as in the United States. Another, a 
public lecturer, was surprised at the fact, and 
considered it quite a new feature in monarchical 
government! And yet their newspapers have 
large extracts from our opposition and radical 



INTELLIGENCE. 



107 



journals. I was conversing with another lectu- 
rer, who told me that he had been informed, 
that the Members of Parliament were in the 
habit of sitting in the House with their hats 
on, which he considered a pregnant instance 
of the little liberty enjoyed by the people of 
England ! The reader will of course imagine 
that this gentleman was bantering, or adopting 
language manifestly absurd, for the purpose of 
eliciting my opinions. But the fact is, that he 
was in good earnest, his argument being, that the 
people being kept in subjection too great, they 
availed themselves of what little liberty they had, 
to make it appear as great as possible ! Now 
this person be it observed is at the head of a mi- 
litary academy, and stands in good estimation 
as a scientific character. I heard him deliver a 
lecture at Boston on military tactics, and will do 
him the justice to own, that it was one of the 
clearest and most explanatory I ever heard. Stop- 
ping at the same tavern, and being afterwards 
fellow passengers in a steam packet, I conversed 
a good deal with him, and found him a man 
whose head was so full of prejudice and non- 
sense about England, that there w T as no convin- 
cing him of any thing favourable ; and yet he was 
a man of good sense in other matters, and appa- 
rently of extensive reading. He might have 



108 



INTELLIGENCE. 



known that the House of Representatives sit co- 
vered as well as the House of Commons ; and it 
is preposterous to suppose that the House of 
Lords sit covered to testify their independence. 

A circumstance to which I have not yet al- 
luded, is still further elucidatory of the state of 
literature and general information : it is the high 
value attached to the dictum of a few distin- 
guished individuals. In Virginia, the opinion 
of the quondam President Jefferson on literary 
matters, seems to possess the potent influence of 
the magician's wand. I called upon him at his 
seat at Monticello, and doubt not from the 
short interview I had with him, that he is a scho- 
lar and man of taste, whose opinion is entitled 
to respect. But it certainly would not be re- 
ceived in the undisputed manner it is, if litera- 
ture were as generally diffused as the Americans 
would have the world believe. Popes in litera- 
ture, are as incompatible with an enlightened 
era as Pop^s in religion. A person who was 
speaking to me about him, told me that he was 
considered to be the most learned man in the 
world. I could name one or two others, whose 
authority in their respective districts is received 
with almost unbounded submission. Many books 
are published with the sanction of such persons 



INTELLIGENCE. 



10f) 



printed at the beginning, as if a censorship ex- 
isted in the land. A gentleman who resides at 
New York appears to have been absolutely in- 
toxicated with the fumes of flattery, and de- 
ference to his literary and scientific reputation. 
When I was at his house, he displayed more va- 
nity than I ever before witnessed in one of his 
various attainments. He told me of the notice 
taken of him by this and by that foreigner, of the 
numerous letters he received from Europe and 
Asia, and of the compliments paid to him by 
such and such an institution. He mentioned with 
particular complacency, that a speech of his in 
Congress some years back, was repaid by a ge- 
neral clapping of hands ; an honour never before 
nor since paid to any one. As I was about leav- 
ing, he presented me with a printed paper, which 
might, he said, be of use to me as a traveller. I 
found that it was a chronological summary of 
the events of his life ! A solitary instance like 
this would of itself weigh little or nothing ; but 
when taken into account in connexion with other 
matters, may be allowed to indicate, that the 
number of eminent scholars is small, and that the 
degree of learning in the public at large, is not 
such as to deserve boastful language. 



The education of those designed for the legal 



110 



INTELLIGENCE. 



profession is worthy some attention. In most of 
the States, the requisite qualifications are so low, 
that Coke, Blackstone, a few volumes of com- 
mon law cases, a copy of the laws of the State, 
and of those of the United States, are nearly all 
the books thought essential. I believe that hun- 
dreds, if not thousands of instances occur, of per- 
sons being called to the bar, who know no more 
than a school-boy of civil, canon and maritime 
law, and of the laws of war, and the law of na- 
tions. Improvement may and does take place 
afterwards ; but can any one think, that so con- 
fined a study, is commensurate with a lawyer's 
duties ? All however are not so deficient as is 
implied by my remark. America can refer at 
this time to her courts in New York, Massachu- 
setts and some other States, with perfect satis- 
faction of men being found there competent to 
their stations, or to any legal station : and she 
can say of some of them, that they may com- 
pare with any lawyers in the world. But cer- 
tainly till some new regulations are adopted in 
some of the States, neither the bar nor the bench 
will become so respectable as is desirable. I was 
in a court in Pennsylvania, where the Judge was 
laughed at by the counsel for his ignorance of 
law. It was evident to me, who am no lawyer, 
that many an attorney's clerk might have super- 



INTELLIGENCE. 



Ill 



seded him with advantage. These things must 
be borne in mind, when forming an estimate of 
the degree of intelligence in the country. 

Of the medical profession I can only speak 
from hearsay ; for though I conversed with se- 
veral physicians, it was chiefly on other subjects 
than their profession. Several persons assured 
me that it was in a disgracefully low state. They 
were persons capable of knowing, and too fond 
of their country to wish to disparage it. I at- 
tended a lecture at Baltimore delivered by a 
physician of repute. He might be a good doc- 
tor, but he was a bad lecturer. The medical 
college in that city is considered nearly the best 
in the Union. At the hospital, I saw numerous 
very beautifully-executed anatomical prepara 7 
tions, but notwithstanding the advantages which 
students may have in that city, in the study of 
surgery and pharmacy, I am of opinion from 
what I heard, that their theoretical knowledge 
is very limited. 

If it be thought that I have represented the 
intelligence of the country too low, let it be re- 
membered, that the national vanity led me to 
examine the subject with great suspicion. Af- 
ter weighing the evidence maturely and without 



112 



INTELLIGENCE. 



prejudice, my judgment is, that America is con- 
siderably below several European countries ; and 
I believe that intelligent Americans who have 
travelled, will confirm this opinion at least in de- 
gree. Several with whom I argued this point, 
admitted that the nation was grossly in error in 
its self-estimation. Perhaps if I had got ac- 
quainted with the citizens of Boston, I should 
be willing to admit more than I now can, con- 
sistently with my sense of justice. Boston has 
the character of being the most intellectual city 
in the United States ; but provokingly, I had 
not a single letter of introduction to it. I walk- 
ed about the streets, and saw its fine buildings, 
docks and harbour ; I entered its noble public 
library and reading rooms ; I got acquainted 
with two or three civil persons, who were ready 
to do me all reasonable kindness ; I attended its 
debating society, and heard two or three orators; 
but as to the mind of the city, I had no means of 
forming any thing like a tolerable judgment. I 
felt the uncomfortableness of my situation, and 
at last resolved to venture to make a call on a 
gentleman with whose fame as a scholar I was 
acquainted ; for as I knew he could give me a 
piece of information which I much wanted, and 
knew not how else to gain, I thought that he 
would probably excuse the liberty in a foreigner 



INTELLIGENCE. 113 

circumstanced as I was. I enquired for his re- 
sidence and set out ; but before I reached it, the 
consideration that he might be troubled more 
than is agreeable by the presence of strangers, 
and that a scholar like himself could feel no in- 
terest in an obscure traveller like me, who had 
no fame, no title, to serve as a passport, operat- 
ed so strongly on my mind, that I passed the 
door without giving a knock. In consequence 
of my irresolution, I lost my only chance of be- 
ing introduced into the most intelligent circle in 
the land ; which, whatever regret it occasions, is 
partly compensated by the better chances I had 
in other places. I left the city without obtain- 
ing the information I wanted. 

Let me add, that the state of learning is in 
many parts evidently improving, and that the 
yearly additions to the number of scholars are 
not few. It is likely that in half a century more, 
America will not be behind any country in the 
world. The prospect of such a state is little less 
cheering to a European than to a native, since 
whatever considerable improvements take place 
in learning or science, will soon extend their in- 
fluence across the Atlantic. Rome learnt arts 
from Greece after she had subdued her, and 
England may learn arts from the colonies she 
has planted, 

I ; 



CHAPTER IX. 



PATRIOTISM. 



Soame Jenyns, in his View of the internal evi- 
dences of the Christian Religion, has endeavour- 
ed to prove that patriotism is not a Christian vir- 
tue. That he has not made many converts is 
well known, and it is improbable that he ever 
will. The enlightened Christian will doubtless 
consider all mankind as his brethren ; but he may 
surely prefer the people of his own country to 
those of other lands. There is no more impro- 
priety in being attached in a superior degree ta 
the nation of which we form a part, and in es- 
pousing its interests in preference to others, than 
in regarding our own family as nearer and dearer 
than one of no relationship. The man so expans- 
ive in his benevolence as to have no partialities, is 
not likely to be an actively useful member of so- 
ciety. He may soar high in imagination, but 
like Icarus he will soon sink. The love of coun- 
try is implanted by nature, and ought to be che- 
rished ; but like other good qualities, it requires 
pruning to prevent a rank luxuriance. The Ame- 
ricans are as ardently attached to their country 



PATRIOTISM. 



115 



as the Swiss, the Scotch or the Icelanders ; and 
when its honour is assailed, they feel their pas- 
sions roused. The accounts of them by En- 
glish travellers and the comments of reviewers, 
have excited their indignation to an extraordi- 
nary degree. It is therefore my intention to 
examine, whether they are justified in their com- 
plaints of English bigotry and English misrepre- 
sentation. Such an enquiry may perhaps be 
serviceable to both parties. 

On examining most of the books of travels in 
America by Englishmen, it will be found that 
the impression they are calculated to make is on 
the whole unfavourable. Who after reading the 
narratives of Ashe, Jansen, Fearon,Weld, Howitt, 
Howisson, Welby, and Faux, but would conclude 
that the Americans are a rude, wild, dirty, craf- 
ty and low-minded people ? But then it remains 
to be seen, whether these authors can be justly 
charged with falsehood, or wilful misrepresent- 
ation. There are unquestionably some errone- 
ous statements in one or two of them ; but I as- 
sert as undeniable, that truth has for the most 
part been supported, though candour has been 
laid aside. Now it is obvious that where this 
course is pursued, the object of publishing books 
of travels is defeated understanding as I do, 

i % 



116 



PATRIOTISM. 



that an author professing to inform his country- 
men of a foreign land, its inhabitants and insti- 
tutions, ought in justice to give the good as well 
as bad traits that present themselves. But when 
it is borne in mind, that the travellers above 
named appear to have passed through the coun- 
try without becoming acquainted with the most 
intelligent part of the community, or at least 
without that disposition to be pleased which is so 
necessary in foreign lands, it may be inferred 
with great probability, that they were not qua- 
lified to do justice to the people, concerning 
whom they have written. Suppose that a fo- 
reigner travelling through England, were to pub- 
lish an account of all his observations at the inns 
and public houses where he stopped, on the 
rudeness of one, the affected importance of an- 
other, and the peevishness of a third ; and with- 
out having visited in genteel private families, 
were to endeavour to persuade his readers that 
England had nothing better, should we not laugh 
at him for a simpleton and despise his book ? 
But the Americans, who in degree have been 
thus treated, have manifested anger instead of 
mirth ; in which they have been as unwise as the 
travellers in the fable, who quarrelled about the 
colour of the chameleon. I scarcely met with a 
single person, except the Secretary of war, who 



PATRIOTISM. 117 

viewed the subject in its right light. Many 
were quite furious on it, and nearly all seemed 
as sorely wounded as poor Christian after he had 
had Giant Despair's cudgelling. Walsh's Ap- 
peal was evidently written under irritated feel- 
ings. It pleased his countrymen for a time, but 
was soon laid on the shelf as a clumsy book, ac- 
cording to the author's definition of it, being in- 
adequate to its professed object, and written in 
a bad spirit. But the most amusing proof of the 
feelings of the Americans, on the treatment 
they have received from English authors, is a 
book entitled, A Sketch of Old England by a 
New Englander. The author with commendable 
diligence, has collected a mass of facts and as- 
sumed facts, elucidatory of the miserable state 
of England ; and having arranged them with 
some ingenuity, and commented on them with ma- 
lignant satisfaction, has given them to the world 
partly in revenge, but principally with the view 
of compelling Englishmen to speak respectfully 
of America ! And was this writer so ignorant 
of human nature, as to suppose that vulgar abuse 
is the most likely means to ensure respect ? It is 
a proof however of that morbid sensibility which 
I have mentioned. While they complain so 
loudly of English travellers, they seem to forget 
that the works of Hall, Harris, and more espe- 



118 



PATRIOTISM. 



cially of Frances Wright, represent them in very 
favourable colours. A series of letters which 
appeared in the Christian Observer, and which 
are the production of a Liverpool merchant, are 
also written with candour and liberality. 

Not only do the Americans complain of En- 
glish travellers, but of English critics, and more 
especially of the Edinburgh Reviewers. These 
writers, say they, profess to uphold liberal prin- 
ciples and to be advocates for political liberty, 
and claim merit for their labours in the cause of 
philanthropy ; and yet they have been continu- 
ally abusing us, who have done the most of any 
people in the world, in advancing the rights and 
happiness of man. Without stopping to examine 
how far the Americans are entitled to the gene- 
ral gratitude of the human race, I shall proceed 
to examine the charge against the Reviewers. 
Let any dispassionate person turn over the vo- 
lumes of the Edinburgh Review, and he will find 
more praise of America than censure. True, 
there are some flippant, ill-natured sarcasms, but 
what then ? Has not their satire on their own 
country been quite as poignant ? Have they not 
been as severe in their strictures on the English 
government, as in any thing they have said re- 
specting America ? Why then should the Ame- 
ricans complain ? If they had traduced America 



PATRIOTISM. 119 

and lauded Great Britain, it must be admitted 
that they would stand condemned in the judg- 
ment of impartial persons ; but while they speak 
of one country with the same freedom they do 
of the other, it seems unjust to charge them with 
illiberality, and with acting at variance with 
their principles. But, say the Americans, the 
Reviewers have been so unfair, as to ridicule 
different publications, merely because they were 
the productions of American citizens. The di- 
rect answer to this is to deny ihe assertion. Let 
any one examine the criticisms on Montgomery's 
Wanderer of Switzerland, Sir John Sinclair's 
Code of Health, Wraxall's Memoirs, Words- 
worth's Excursion and sundry works of Southey 
and Coleridge, and then say if Barlow's Colum- 
biad, Marshall's Life of Washington and a few 
other American books were censured from na- 
tional prejudice. Nothing can be further from 
the truth. But to hear the indignant language 
of the Americans, one might fancy that it is high 
treason against their government, to satirize any 
thing they do or say. The sovereign people, 
like other sovereigns, want to be fumed with the 
incense of flattery. 

Of the tone of several articles in the Quarter- 
ly Review, they may complain with some rea- 



120 



PATRIOTISM. 



son ; not only because they are written in the 
same malignant spirit as the Sketch of Old Eng- 
land, but because that Review is filled with eu- 
logiums on England, and some of them unmerit* 
ed. But instead of returning railing for railing, 
it would be better for the Americans to act on 
a different plan. What however is the fact ? 
Their newspapers teem with scurrility on Eng- 
land. And for one objectionable paragraph by 
our writers, there are probably ten by theirs. 
This is not as it should be. Let us speak free- 
ly, but without undue asperity of each other. 
The rival ship between the nations, will under 
due regulations, tend to their mutual benefit. 

The patriotic notions of many Americans, 
combined with their ignorance of other coun- 
tries, lead them into gross errors. Not satisfied 
with hearing their country spoken of respect- 
fully, they want it extolled ; and if a foreigner 
ventures to hint that improvement might be 
made in this or that thing, he is almost sure to be 
condemned as illiberal and bigoted. Of this I had 
numerous instances. Having had a long con- 
versation with a naval officer on different sub- 
jects, he asked my opinion of the country. I 
spoke strongly in its favour, and assured him 
that next to my own, it stood first in my regard, 



PATRIOTISM. 



121 



at the same time pointing out several things that 
1 disapproved. I had not the remotest idea, that 
I should in consequence be condemned for a 
want of candour, for controversy we had none, 
and were both in good humour and apparent 
harmony ; and yet a few days after, I was told 
by another person that this officer had reported, 
that I was going as a spy through the land, and 
intended on my return home, to vilify it like 
other English travellers ! As I was in a stage- 
coach, the conversation turned on the improve- 
ments going on ; and the Erie canal was advert- 
ed to. One of the passengers described it, as 
the wonder of the world, as the glory of the age. 
I remarked that it certainly was a great and use- 
ful work, and manifested conspicuously the spi- 
rit and enterprise of the people, but that 1 could 
not think such strong language as he used, was 
altogether applicable to it. Some hours after, 
another passenger asked me, what State I was a 
native of. I told him that I was an Englishman. 
" I thought so, 5 ' said the first, " from your re- 
marks on the canal : you did not speak of it like 
an American." The reader will perhaps sup- 
pose, that there was something in my tone and 
manner, calculated to make an impression that 
I thought meanly of the work. Quite the con- 
trary : I spoke of it as I thought, and even add- 



1 

122 PATRIOTISM. 

ed, that it was a work of which the country might 
justly be proud. But because I subtracted from 
his extravagant eulogium, I could not forsooth 
be an American ! But this is the case through- 
out. The Capitol at Washington surpasses all 
other edifices : Philadelphia is the perfection of 
beauty : New York is the most enterprising city 
in the world : the Americans are the only peo- 
ple who possess liberty. Those who venture 
to express a doubt on these points, no matter 
how diffidently, are stared at with wonder. That 
this should be the case with the vulgar and igno- 
rant need excite no surprise ; but that in the su- 
perior ranks, there should be a large proportion 
who thus express themselves, is a fact quite start- 
ling. Patriotism may surely be felt and mani- 
fested without the use of extravagant terms ; but 
this the Americans do not seem to understand. 
A gentleman who also spoke of the canal, told 
me, that taking the circumstances of the people 
into consideration, it was equal to the Pyramids 
of Egypt, or the wall of China ! 

But the most diverting specimens of national 
vanity, were exhibited by two gentlemen who 
had made the tour of Europe. One told me 
that as he was walking in the gardens at V er- 
sailles, a boy pointing to him said to another, 



PATRIOTISM. 



" There goes an Englishman on which he told 
the boy that he was not an Englishman but an 
American. The boy begged his pardon, saying, 
that he certainly had taken him for an Englishman, 
but hoped he had not given offence. The other 
gentleman said that as he was at Dieppe, a man 
accosted him as an Englishman, who on being 
told that he was an American, exclaimed, " So 
much the better." So little had these two tra- 
vellers learnt of French habits and manners, that 
they actually related these anecdotes to me to 
prove the superior estimation in which Ame- 
rican citizens are held on the continent of Eu- 
rope ! Now when patriotism gives birth to va- 
nity like this, it becomes as ridiculous, as under 
due regulations it is noble. 

Though the Americans are generally patriotic 
to bigotry, I met, as might be supposed, with 
some amongst them who manifested a totally dif- 
ferent feeling. One gentleman, whom I met at 
York in Pennsylvania, expressed himself so dis- 
satisfied with the country, that I told him I did 
not admire his want of patriotism. In reply, he 
said that he had been in France, which country 
he so much loved that he cared nothing about 
his own. If he had adopted France as his per- 
manent abode, he would have been right in at- 



124 



PATRIOTISM. 



taching himself more strongly to it than to his 
native country ; though even in such a case, I 
should think it rather unnatural in him to feel no 
regard for the latter. But the opinion, that it is 
right or justifiable to be careless of the welfare 
of a nation of which we are a component part, 
is not apprehensible by me. Two persons at Bos- 
ton with whom I got acquainted, expressed 
themselves in language not quite so unpatriotic 
as in the last cited case, but with little affection 
for their country. Another at Albany was of 
sentiments apparently correspondent. But the 
bitterest spirit against America which I any 
where witnessed, was in an Englishman resident 
in Philadelphia, who though a naturalized citi- 
zen, was displeased with the climate, the govern- 
ment, the people, the laws, and the administra- 
tion of justice ; and yet he had been thirty years 
settled in the country. Several other of my 
countrymen told me they should be glad to re- 
turn home, and intended it at a future time, but 
spoke with a due appreciation of Ameilca and 
her citizens. I am glad to be able to state, that 
most of those who manifested a hatred of Ame- 
rica, were persons who left England from a si- 
milar hatred. 



CHAPTER X. 



HOSPITALITY. 

Hospitality is a quality generally to be found 
amongst the inhabitants of thinly-peopled coun- 
tries. Pastoral nations, as the Hebrews of old, 
and the Arabs and Tartars of the present day, 
have always been distinguished for their readi- 
ness to receive the wayfaring man under their 
roof. The reason for it may be found in the 
paucity of travellers, and the consequent want 
of inns. The sight and conversation of a stranger 
are pleasing to persons living in such countries, 
to a degree of which city residents can from their 
own experience form no idea. But when citi- 
zens are charged, as they often are, with a want 
of hospitality, due allowance is not made for the 
circumstances attending their situation. "Where 
the number of strangers is great, and the public 
accommodations are handsome, how can it be 
expected that a stranger should be noticed ? 
Accordingly, the rule in cities is to be free from 
any obligation to notice strangers unless furnish- 
ed with introductory letters : and when such let- 
ters are satisfactory, citizens are seldom behind 



126 



HOSPITALITY. 



hand in kind attentions. But so truly hospita- 
ble are the Americans, that even in cities I re- 
ceived the most flattering attentions from per- 
sons to whom I was a total stranger, without be- 
ing furnished with any introduction. Wherever 
I went in town or country I met with friends. 
My feelings of gratitude therefore induce me to 
give a number of instances. And as I shall 
mingle particulars illustrative of the habits and 
manners of the people, I doubt not that the re- 
cital will be interesting to all my readers. 

Soon after I landed at New York, I fell acci- 
dentally into conversation with a lawyer, whom 
I met at a house where I called on business. 
Learning that I was an Englishman just arrived, 
he made numerous enquiries respecting England, 
and conducting me to his house, invited me to 
spend the evening with him. I accepted the in- 
vitation, and passed the time in that agreeable 
manner, which conversation with intelligent per- 
sons generally produces. Being about to leave 
the city, he requested me on my return to call 
and see him again. I did so ; and was received 
with the same kind attention as before. And on 
my reaching New York a third time, I renewed 
my acquaintance with him and still found him 
disposed to gratify and oblige me. On one oc- 



I 

HOSPITALITY. 



127 



casion, he took me a ride into the country ; and 
stopping at a farm-house on our return, he in- 
troduced me to the farmer and his wife, by whom 
we were invited to tea. We remained with them 
about two hours and were regaled with raspber- 
ries and cream. Our ride, which was on Long 
Island, was a particularly pleasant one, it being 
in the early part of summer, when the landscape 
is green. In short, this gentleman was so polite 
and attentive, that I avoided calling on him, not 
liking to receive so many favours from one to 
whom I could not make an adequate return. 

As I was in a bookseller's shop at Albany, a 
gentleman present asked me some question con- 
cerning a book on the shelf, and in replying, 
finding it necessary to refer to England, he ask- 
ed if I had been in England ; and on learning 
that I was an Englishman who was but recently 
come into the country, he furnished me with his 
address, and requested my company. I went to 
call upon him the following evening, but there 
being another person of his name in the same 
street, I went to the wrong house. Owing to a 
curious circumstance, I did not discover my mis- 
take for nearly a quarter of an hour ; for I sup- 
posed that the person I was speaking to, was an 
inmate of the house, and not the master. How- 



128 HOSPITALITY* 

ever, this mistake was the means of bringing me 
acquainted with two families instead of one. I 
afterwards waited on the first, who was a man of 
candid, liberal sentiments, and one of the Epis- 
copal clergy. He told me that it gave him plea- 
sure to entertain a foreigner, and he doubted 
not that I should find his countrymen generally x 
disposed to shew attention to strangers. He be- 
ing of Welsh origin, he alluded to the Princi- 
pality with great interest. Indeed I almost in- 
variably noticed that educated Americans look 
to the land of their fathers with filial regard. My 
time being limited, I had not so much of this 
gentleman's company as I desired ; but his frank, 
kind disposition gave me a favourable opinion 
of him. 

In a former chapter, I have mentioned being 
in a passage-boat on the Erie canal. I received 
from several of my fellow passengers the most 
pressing invitations to their houses, three of 
which I accepted. One was from a hatter re- 
siding at Trumansberg, a village near Cayuga 
Lake. He walked with me three miles, to shew 
me the magnificent cascade which I have de- 
scribed. On our return he gave me a hearty 
welcome to a good dinner. Though not a man 
of much education, his conversation was agree- 



HOSPITALITY. 



1 29 



able. Another invitation was from a shopkeeper 
at Geneva, a village at the outlet of Seneca 
Lake. He was by birth an Englishman, but be- 
ing carried over when a boy, is to be considered 
as an American in reference to the object of this 
chapter. At his house, I dined and spent the 
remainder of the day. His wife and sister-in- 
law with ourselves formed the company. We 
talked on a variety of subjects, and amongst 
other things did not forget Old England. They 
were much pleased with hearing my description 
of London, while I listened with equal pleasure 
to their accounts of America. This visit seem- 
ed to me like one with old friends, rather than 
casual acquaintances, The other invitation was 
from a lawyer at Canandaigua, who was formerly 
a member of Congress, and the only American I 
met with, who completely understood English 
politics. He directed my attention to those ob- 
jects of curiosity and interest that lay in my 
route, and took pains to make me appreciate 
duly the great natural advantages of the country. 

Having occasion to stay two or three days at 
Rochester, a thriving town on the Genessee, I 
got acquainted with several of the inhabitants, 
and was kindlyand liberally entertained by them. 
One invitation was given to me in a place of 

K 



130 



HOSPITALITY. 



worship, by a person who had noticed me in the 
town as a stranger. Though I had not spoken 
a word to him, he came up to me, offering his 
hand, and asked me to dinner. Though a man 
of rather contracted and bigoted mind, he proved 
himself of a kind disposition. 

» The instances I have hitherto mentioned are 

# 

in the State of New York. It may therefore be 
proper to take a few cases from those that oc- 
curred in other States, to show that hospitality 
is not limited to one district. As I was in the 
coach between Boston and Providence, I had a 
good deal of lively talk with an inhabitant of the 
latter place. The result was, that he invited me 
to his house. On calling there, I found that 
he was a schoolmaster. After walking through 
the school and examining the state of the chil- 
dren's education, we took tea. One of the 
teachers who sat near me, was a young woman 
of as sensible mind as I have often met, and so 
easy in her manners and at the same time so mo- 
dest, that I could not but! be gratified with my 
visit, more especially as much of our discourse 
was on literary topics, in which she took great 
interest. They invited me to repeat my visit, 
but I had not an opportunity. Another case in 
Providence that I wish to mention is this. I 



HOSPITALITY. 131 

stopped a man in the street to ask for some in- 
formation. He gave it me, and then said that 
he was going home to dinner, and if I were dis- 
posed to take my chance for a family dinner 
with him I was welcome to a seat at his table. 
Something in his manner pleased me and I went 
with him. He introduced me to his wife, who 
soon set before us a plain, substantial dinner, 
such as it is customary to find at tradesmen's 
tables, and which was particularly acceptable to 
me, as I had been faring sumptuously for some 
days previously. I sat with them about an hour 
after dinner holding conversation on America. 
In the evening, as I was at the tavern, their son 
came to me with an invitation to give them an- 
other call. I walked back with him, when they 
told me that thinking I might perhaps be in 
company not the most agreeable, as is often the 
case at houses of public resort, they had resolv- 
ed to invite me to join their circle. This ex- 
traordinary proof of kindness deserves to be re- 
membered, for where in the records of hospita- 
lity can it be excelled ? When this person first 
asked me to dinner, he knew nothing of me. 
From the enquiry I made, he perceived I was a 
stranger, and that was enough to induce him to 
notice me. When he learnt that I was an En- 
glishman, he was still more minute in his atten- 
k 2 



HOSPITALITY. 



tions. The evening passed pleasantly ; and on 
taking leave, he requested that if I should ever 
be in Providence again, I would not fail to call 
on them. 

When I was at Harrisburg in Pennsylvania, a 
young man, a merchant of Philadelphia, stopped 
at the house where I put up. In the course of 
conversation, he enquired of me where I was 
from ; and on my saying I was an Englishman, 
he said that his mother was an Englishwoman ; 
and further particulars led to the knowledge of 
the circumstance, that she and I were natives of 
the same town. He told me that his mother 
took particular pleasure in the company of her 
own countrymen, and that he doubted not she 
would be glad to see one from her native town ; 
and desired me to give them a call on my return 
to Philadelphia. It so happened that I met this 
gentleman in the street a few hours after my re- 
turn. He invited me to take tea with them that 
evening, an invitation which I readily accepted \ 
and was in consequence introduced to a very 
agreeable family. The father, an old gentleman 
of a cheerful turn of mind, and very open-heart- 
ed, had when a young man resided in London, 
where he married. His wife made many en- 
quiries respecting her old neighbours in our na- 



HOSPITALITY. 



133 



tive town, and was so much interested in the 
particulars I gave her, that she remarked she 
had not been so gratified for the thirty years of 
her residence in America. Whether it be that 
her natural disposition is lively, or that the revi- 
val of past days had a more than ordinary effect 
upon her I know not ; but she showed a vivacity 
very striking and pleasing in one of her years. 
She told me that during my stay in the city, I 
was to consider their house as one where I might 
at any time step in. She informed me what were 
their dinner hours, and added that a knife and 
fork would always be laid for me when I inclin- 
ed to join them, as she wished me to feel at 
home. The sons, all of whom but the one I 
mentioned had been in England, were intelligent 
and polite. They took so much pains to gratify 
me in every thing connected with their city and 
its environs, that I hardly know in what terms 
to speak of their kindness. One of them took 
me in his chaise to a Lunatic Asylum at about 
six miles distant : on another occasion, he pro- 
posed my joining a party of five or six young 
persons who were going, to view a gentleman's 
garden near the city. I did so, and though the 
weather was oppressively hot, we had a delight- 
ful ride. The garden is one of the few ornamen- 
tal ones to be seen in the United States ; and 



134 



HOSPITALITY. 



though not laid out in the best taste in all parts, 
has many beauties. We remained in it for I 
suppose at least an hour, now resting in a sum- 
mer-house, now under a tree, and then walking 
again through the varied paths. What with the 
charms of the place, and the company of the la- 
dies who were all in good spirits, I have seldom 
had a pleasanter afternoon. One of his brothers 
called me one day to take a ride with him, when 
he drove me round what is called the neck, be- 
ing the land below the city between the two ri- 
vers. It is flat ; but some part of it being cul- 
tivated by market gardeners, has a regular and 
pleasing appearance. On our return into the 
city, we stopped at the Academy of Arts to view 
an exhibition of paintings, which though not so 
large as the exhibition at Somerset House, was 
well worth viewing. Another day he drove me 
to the Orphan Asylum. In short, they one and 
all were so exceedingly obliging, that my stay in 
Philadelphia is a sort of era in my life. 

One of the family having a country house near 
the Schuylkill about six miles from the city, I 
went there to spend an evening. A gentleman 
who has a cotton manufactory near the house 
proposed taking me round in his gig, to see the 
beauties of the river and inspect his establish- 



HOSPITALITY. 



135 



ment. This was a very pleasant proposal, and 
one that I cheerfully embraced. The scenery 
on the banks of the river is quite picturesque, 
and different from most of the rivers I have seen. 
Though not magnificent, it is so varied by the 
mixture of rude nature and cultivation, here a 
small cascade, there a well-built house, and a little 
further a pile of huge stones, that our ride was 
quite delightful. I had to cross a ferry to get to 
my friend's house, the amenity of which at once 
caught my attention, it being on a small emi- 
nence embracing views which if not picturesque, 
were simply rural and elegant. As I was ap- 
proaching it he came out to meet me, and giv- 
ing me his hand introduced me to his wife and 
daughter. Judging from the comparatively lit- 
tle I had of their company, I should suppose the 
former to be a woman of great good sense and 
considerable reading : her politeness and collo- 
quial talents were conspicuous. The daughter, a 
girl about fifteen years of age, was one whose edu- 
cation had evidently been very carefully attended 
to, and carried further than is common in Ame- 
rica. She had not assumed the carriage of a wo- 
man, a circumstance in her favour, as it made 
her attainments appear to more advantage, but 
she was lively and conversable. We took tea in 
a handsome porch looking over a green field. 



136 



HOSPITALITY. 



and in such company it will easily be supposed I 
thoroughly enjoyed myself. Early the next morn- 
ing, my kind, attentive host entered into my bed- 
room and inquired if I should like to take a bath. 
I replied in the affirmative, and immediately ri- 
sing, was conducted to one in an adjoining field 
which is filled by a small brook and is therefore 
always fresh. He then showed me round his lit- 
tle farm which is in excellent order. After break- 
fast we took a walk in the garden, which though 
not large, was more tasteful, and with few ex- 
ceptions had a greater variety of shrubs and flow- 
ers than any other garden I saw in the country. 
He then drove me to the house of a neighbour, a 
Judge of one of their courts. After walking in 
his grounds for some time, where I was shown 
two trees planted by General Washington, I re- 
turned to the city. When on taking leave of 
this family, I acknowledged the flattering atten- 
tions I had received, the mother my countrywo- 
man desired I would not mention them, as it was 
always agreeable to see her countrymen, and a 
double pleasure to see a townsman. One of her 
sons came to shake hands with me on board the 
steam-boat, and on my making the same acknow- 
ledgments to him, he said that he was only re- 
turning the kindness he had received from Eng- 
lishmen in England, May this feeling of mu- 



HOSPITALITY. 



187 



tual kindness continue to increase, till all bitter- 
ness, wrath and evil-speaking on the part of each 
nation of the other totally subside ! Peace may 
then be considered as permanently established; 
and how happy will it be for both countries when 
this is the case ! None but wicked men can de- 
sire a rupture between two countries so formed 
by the ties of language, relationship and religion, 
to be united for ever in the bonds of friendship. 

As I was walking on the bank of the canal 
which is cut through the Dismal Swamp in Virgi- 
nia, I stopped to rest on a bench. While sitting 
there, a man accosted me by saying that he per- 
ceived I was a stranger. I replied that I was. 
" Well," said he, " my house lies three miles off, 
and I am now going home : will you please to ac- 
company me and take a night's lodging ?" I 
thanked him for his kind proposal, but declined 
it as I was proceeding in another direction. But 
it would not do. He seemed determined that I 
should accompany him ; and as I found that such 
a deviation would not materially affect my ar- 
rangements, I complied. As we entered his farm- 
yard, his little children came running out to 
meet him. He kissed one, took another in his 
arms, and proved himself so affectionate a fa- 
ther, that it was a tendering sight. After we had 



138 



HOSPITALITY. 



taken some refreshment, he conducted me round 
his farm of about three hundred acres, informing 
me of his management, and showing me his stock. 
Though myself almost entirely ignorant of rural 
affairs, having from a child lived a town life, yet 
I contrived to hold a conversation with him with 
some interest. What pleased me the best, was 
to find that he had no negroes on his farm though 
living in the midst of a slave population. He 
told me that he was principled against slavery, 
and had formed a resolution early in life never 
to hold a fellow man in bondage ; a resolution 
which he had never seen reason to depart from 
or regret. " It is true," said he, " that I work 
harder than my neighbours ; but I am able to keep 
the sheriff and constable from the door, and should 
not fear a comparison of profits with any of the 
farmers round ; and then I have the consolation 
of reflecting that I am guilty of no oppression, 
and that my children will be brought up to more 
industry and virtue, than if the demoralizing ex- 
ample of slavery was always before their eyes." 
Happy man, thought I, art thou to have broken 
through the prejudices of education, and though 
like Milton's Abdiel thou standest alone, thou 
wilt surely have thy reward in an approving con- 
science. After supper, he took a religious book 
from the shelf, and began reading to the family. 



HOSPITALITY. 



t 

139 



How similar was it to the description given in 
Burns's poem, the Cotter's Saturday night ! As 
I lay in bed, my mind was rilled with reflections 
on what I had seen and heard. The simplicity, 
benevolence and piety of my worthy host ; the 
industry and hospitable entertainment of his wife ; 
the prattling and playfulness of their children ; 
the absence of slavery ; the happiness of the 
whole family : — thought rushed upon thought and 
I could not sleep. But that evening will surely 
long be remembered by me with keen interest. 
After breakfast on the following morning, I rose 
to depart, when I had another proof of the farm- 
er's kindness. He would walk with me a mile 
on my way to testify his regard to a stranger. I 
seemed thrown back into the patriarchal times, 
by this remarkably friendly act. I think proper 
to add, that he was one of the Arminian Bap- 
tists, a class of religionists of whom I know lit- 
tle, but of whom I am disposed to think favour- 
ably from the few whom I have occasionally met. 

When at Fredericsburg in the same State, I 
left my watch at a shop to be repaired. On 
calling again for it, I fell into conversation with 
the watchmaker, an agreeable, intelligent man. 
He walked with me to the spring which supplies 
the town with water, giving me information on 



140 



HOSPITALITY. 



all the points of my enquiries about the town 
and its vicinity. I afterwards took tea with him, 
and was very handsomely entertained. Like 
most intelligent Americans, he was much grati- 
fied to hear me speak well of my country ; for 
notwithstanding the revolutionary war and the 
late war between the two countries, they have a 
sincere regard for England. 

Desirous of seeing every class of persons in 
the country, I walked from Fredericsburg to the 
seat of a wealthy planter, distant about twenty 
miles. I had voyaged with him some weeks be- 
fore in a steam-boat, and had then received an 
invitation from him. He had been recently 
elected a Senator in Congress, though upwards 
of seventy years old. His age had not in the 
slightest degree impaired his reasoning faculties. 
On the contrary, he was as clear-headed and 
cheerful as if he had been half a century younger. 
He received me with that hearty welcome which 
makes a person feel that he is no intruder, and 
with that polite attention which in a foreign 
land is particularly acceptable. His counte- 
nance was as pleasing as his manners, being 
enlivened by a smile when he spoke ; and his 
eyes and forehead seemed to speak as plainly as 
his conversation, that his intellectual powers 



HOSPITALITY. 



141 



were far above mediocrity. So much blandness 
united to clear comprehension, I have rarely 
witnessed in one so old. What was particularly 
observable in him was, that he took no offence 
at the expression of opinions contrary to his own, 
when proceeding from young persons ; an attain- 
ment which is often wanting in those of advan- 
ced life. This gentleman is noted for his agri- 
cultural improvements directed by the hand of 
taste. His farm appeared to me to be neater 
and better cultivated than any in the neighbour- 
hood. His house stands about a mile from the 
road ; and the approach to it between two rows 
of peach and other fruit trees is delightful. A 
river runs behind it not without its beauties, but 
the country is too flat to be very interesting. 
The old gentleman having served under General 
Washington, entertained me by relating some 
particulars of the revolutionary war. Before it 
broke out he had strongly deprecated it, but 
when the colonies had once entered into it, he 
thought that the best way was to prosecute it 
with vigour, to bring it to a speedy conclusion. 
He still remains the friend of England, express- 
ing himself to me on this point, in stronger lan- 
guage than I dare say he would think prudent 
to utter in the Senate ; for he told me, that he 
had great doubts whether the country had bene- 



142 



HOSPITALITY. 



fited by its separation from the parent state. 
After remaining two days at his house, where I 
had abundance of good things for the palate, and 
conversation of a superior kind, and where, with- 
out being considered intrusive I might have re- 
mained much longer, I took my leave and set 
off. He having told me that his son lived at a 
farm-house on my way, I thought I would give 
him a call. I did so ; and though an entire 
stranger was received in a very courteous man- 
ner. On asking for a glass of water, he sent the 
servant to get some fresh for me ; and setting 
before me wine and spirits requested me to help 
myself. He then asked me to stop and dine. 
I hesitated ; but rinding I was not asked out of 
mere compliment, I accepted his kindness. His 
wife, and two young ladies whom I took for vi- 
siters were at the table, and O ! what a dinner 
we had ! Dishes of various kinds were placed 
before us arranged with some regard to ele- 
gance ; and then there was choice of wine and 
liquors to dilute the more solid parts of the ban- 
quet, and smiles and pleasantry to enliven the 
whole : and then for conversation, we went over 
Scotland and England, and the war between 
France and Spain. We adverted to Byron and 
Scott, and other literary heroes of the day. We 
touched on this subject and on that, and then 



HOSPITALITY. 



143 



recurred to former topics. How animated were 
we! To a stranger like me it was delightful in- 
deed ! And if ever I should be in Virginia again, 
(which I do not expect) I intend once again to 
put this gentleman's hospitality to the test. He 
treated me so well the first time, that I should 
like to venture a second call upon him. In the 
course of the afternoon, 1 rose to take my leave. 
A bed was offered to me if I would stop all 
night. I would gladly have accepted this offer 
both for the sake of company and my own con- 
venience ; but considering that I should not be 
justified in encroaching so much on the kindness 
of one, on whom I had called without any pre- 
vious invitation, I departed. 

On my return to New York to embark for 
England, I called at a merchant's counting- 
house to leave a letter from one of his corre- 
spondents in Philadelphia. This merchant was 
an Irishman, and invited me to take tea with him. 
At his house I met a gentleman who is lecturer 
to a scientific institution in the city, and hence 
in the style of the country is denominated pro- 
fessor ; for the Americans are fond of titles. The 
Professor and I got into a conversation together 
on certain doctrines in vogue, and found our sen- 
timents on them nearly coincident. He was 



HOSPITALITY. 



pleased to request me to renew our acquaintance 
at his house, which I did. I frequently call- 
ed on him during my stay in New York, and 
was always received with easy politeness. Every 
thing in his house, his manners, and his person 
was the opposite of display ; but there was neat- 
ness and elegant simplicity. He entertains his 
guests without any of that foolish parade and 
formality, too often, even in America, shown to 
strangers. Those who visit him have, what is 
more agreeable, a reception which at once re- 
moves all embarrassment and restraint, and makes 
them feel domestic comfort. I passed many plea- 
sant and improving hours in conversation with 
him and his intelligent family. One evening 
when I was at his house, a young man from an 
adjoining street stepped in to walk home with 
his sister, who had been passing about an hour 
there. He was kind enough to give me a friendly 
invitation to his father's house. I thanked him, 
though I had no intention of accepting it ; but 
an accidental circumstance induced me to call, 
and glad indeed was I afterwards that I did, as 
it was the means of my becoming intimate with 
a most interesting family. A feeling of friend- 
ship arose on the first visit 5 the second strength- 
ened it ; the third completed it. During the re- 
mainder of my abode in the city, which was about 



HOSPITALITY. 



145 



three weeks, few days elapsed without my call- 
ing on my friends. There seemed to be some 
impropriety in my burdening them with so 
much of my company ; but considering that my 
time was nearly at an end, I knew not how to 
resist the temptation of frequently renewing my 
intercourse with such a family. As the time of 
my departure approached, the thought of taking 
leave for ever became painful. In the evening 
before the day fixed for my embarkation, we 
crossed the ferry from New York to Hoboken. 
The weather was delightful ; the steam-boat con- 
veyed us in high style ; every thing appeared 
pleasing. The view of the city rising from the 
water, with its numerous spires and turrets, the 
Hudson with ships at anchor and sloops sailing, 
the Jersey shore rich in beauty, the setting sun 
reflected from the windows of the opposite shore ; 
these united to that silence which Milton notices 
as the accompaniment of evening, and the 
thought that this walk must be our last, brought 
a feeling over the mind approaching to melan- 
choly, yet softened so as to be grateful. We re- 
turned and took tea : I then rose to bid adieu. 
As I took each by the hand, I felt that I was 
parting from one dear to me : my heart was 
touched, but my voice was mute. It might be 
that they had a portion of the same feeling, for 



146 



HOSPITALITY. 



our parting was in silence. Farewell! dear 
Friends ; accept the warm tribute of my thanks 
for your unremitted kindness to the foreigner. 
Never, never, while my faculties remain, can it 
be forgotten by me : the remembrance of it is 
sweet and will so continue. 

The hospitality which I experienced in all 
these cases was without an introductory letter ; 
and they are only selections from the numbers I 
could mention. I have given them in preference 
to those where I had letters, because, having no 
claim on the parties, they are the more remark- 
able. If it were necessary to give more instances 
of a similar kind, I could do it in Connecticut, 
New Jersey and Maryland. In the latter State 
in particular, I could relate many very gratifying 
proofs of American generosity. One reflection 
arises in the mind on a review of them. All that 
a traveller has any right to expect are civility, a 
willingness to grant information, and in places 
where there are no taverns, a readiness to grant 
him food and lodging on his paying for them. 
But how much beyond do the Americans go ! If 
they were all Catholics, they would have a long 
catalogue of their works of supererogation. And 
are these the people whom Englishmen are 
taught to regard as low in the scale of civiliza- 



HOSPITALITY. 



147 



lion ? Let us hope that j uster ideas will here- 
after prevail. 

It may seem superfluous to make any mention 
of cases of parties to whom I had letters. Yet 
there are two or three which I wish to notice, as 
they serve to throw light on the American cha- 
racter. On presenting a letter to a merchant 
in Baltimore, he gave me as soon as he had read 
it, a welcome shake of the hand and an invita- 
tion to dinner. I met at his table an Episcopal 
clergyman whose company was very pleasant to 
me. He was a young man of enquiring mind, 
and as ready to answer questions as to put them. 
After dinner, the gentleman's sons walked with 
me to different objects of curiosity in the city. 
We walked to the Washington Monument and 
ascended it, to the Jail, and to other buildings 
whose names I have forgotten. During my stay 
in the city, which was several weeks, I continu- 
ed from time to time to receive proofs of their 
kind attention. The merchant's wife conversed 
with me a great deal about America, of which she 
was desirous I should form a correct opinion. 
Whether I have done so or not, it is right to 
state that it was her arguments and kind beha- 
viour which first made me heartily attached to 
the country ; for though I had before formed a 

L 2 



148 



HOSPITALITY. 



favourable opinion, I still retained some of my 
English prejudices. 

I called to deliver a letter to a schoolmaster^ 
whose house was in a part of Virginia remote 
from the high roads. Before I got to the door 
he came out to welcome me, though he had 
never seen me previously, and knew nothing of 
my having an introductory letter. I remained 
half a day with him, during which he was very 
attentive to me. His son, a young man about 
twenty-two years of age, seemed very partial to 
polite literature. His company was particularly 
acceptable to me, as our conversation turned on 
topics which are too seldom introduced in Ame- 
rican families. I examined several of the boys 
as to their progress in learning, and found it in 
a fair state. The worthy schoolmaster was so 
kind, as to invite me to stay a week with him. 
Instances like this are not uncommon in the re- 
mote parts of the country, where they seldom 
see foreigners ; and I fear that their liberality is 
sometimes taken advantage of, by persons re- 
maining longer than is agreeable. 

A Physician at Petersburg in Virginia intro- 
duced me to some very intelligent company. 
He had received his education in Edinburgh* 



HOSPITALITY. 



149 



and when I was giving him an account of its 
present state, he begged me to desist, as he was 
afraid that his interest would be so much exci- 
ted as to make him wish to return to it. He held 
a long argument with me on the cause of the 
variety of colour in the human species, a subject, 
which, reasoning on the assumption of the truth 
of the Mosaic account of the creation, is exceed- 
ingly puzzling. I do not know that either con- 
vinced the other, but we were quite interested in 
the discussion. At his house, a number of young 
ladies meet weekly as a benevolent society. I 
was admitted into the room where they were 
sitting at work with their needles and thread, 
and had some lively chat with them. It was an 
interesting scene to observe so many devote their 
time to the benefit of the poor. The Doctor's 
sensible conversation and his warm-heartedness 
made my visit to him one of the pleasantest I 
paid in America. With several of the clergy at 
Washington both Episcopalian and Presbyterian, 
I spent some improving hours. Three or four 
of the members of Congress to whom also I had 
letters, were ready to give me information and 
assistance. In fine, the hospitality shown to me 
was joined to so much more devotedness of at- 
tention than I had any reason to expect, that my 
heart was thoroughly warmed. America is cer- 
tainly the land of kind dispositions. 



CHAPTER XL 



POLITENESS. 



In the preceding chapter there are various in- 
stances of politeness ; and yet I doubt whether 
the Americans can properly be called a polite 
people. The first class are indeed very polite ; 
but the middling and lower classes, though not 
rude as some have asserted, are deficient in that 
sort of minute observance of respectful address 
so conspicuous in the French. I suspect that 
those travellers who have complained of the 
rudeness of the Americans, must have demean- 
ed themselves in an arrogant or otherwise un- 
pleasant manner ; for the instances of rudeness 
that I met with were so rare, and those of civi- 
lity so general, that the former must in all fair- 
ness be regarded as exceptions to the general 
rule. My object in the present chapter is to ex- 
hibit the politeness of the upper class. This 
object will I think be best attained by a few par- 
ticulars. As there is not in America any con- 
siderable body of persons living independent of 
business, and constituting an order of gentry, I 
include in the upper class, merchants, lawyers, 
and clergymen, with all those of whatever pro- 



POLITENESS. 



151 



iession whose property or education gives them 
influence in their respective neighbourhoods. 

On entering the Senate of the Pennsylvanian 
Assembly, one of the members with w T hom I had 
had some previous conversation, came as soon as 
he observed me, and invited me to a seat below 
the bar ; an act of courtesy to a stranger that I 
could not but admire. In the lower house, I 
had a similar invitation. One of the members 
who lodged at a private house, introduced me 
to the family, with whom I spent an evening. 
The Judge of the county court, who was in the 
town in the exercise of his functions, took me 
into the State record-chamber, and showed me 
the original charter granted by Charles II. to 
Penn for forming the colony ; and on my visit- 
ing the court where he presided, he requested 
me to take a seat at the counsellors' table. Se- 
veral of the members of Assembly who were at 
the tavern where I stopped, were of very gen- 
tlemanly behaviour. Their politeness to me will 
not soon be forgotten. 

When at Providence in Rhode Island, I walk- 
ed to Brown's University, and enquiring of one 
of the students if there was any thing worth the 
notice of a stranger, he conducted me to his 



152 POLITENESS. 

room, and after a little conversation, went and 
informed his tutor of my being there. He re- 
turned with a message from him, inviting me to 
accompany him through the building. This I 
did, gaining from him the information that I 
wanted, and receiving that pleasing attention 
which in a foreign land endears the inhabitants 
to the traveller. 

I met with a person at a tavern at Schenecta- 
dy in New York, who was one of the surveyors 
of the Erie canal. He was of liberal sentiments 
as it respects other nations and governments, 
manifesting none of that bigoted disposition to 
extol to the skies whatever was American, 
though he had a rational attachment to his coun- 
try. After a long, desultory discourse with him, 
I told him that I thought of calling at Union 
College in that town. He said he was acquaint- 
ed with the Professor of Chemistry, and would 
give me a note to him. The Professor, a young 
man of pleasing manners, showed me every thing 
worth the notice of a stranger and introduced 
me to another of the tutors who accompanied 
us over part of the College. They very press- 
ingly invited me to stay and dine with them; 
but as the note I took was from a casual ac- 
quaintance, and not one of a stamp conferring a 



POLITENESS. 



153 



degree of freedom in the bearer, I returned to 
nay quarters to dinner, though I would gladly 
have had more conversation with two such cha- 
racters as they appeared to be. If I had had 
no introduction to them, I might perhaps have 
accepted their invitation ; but I could not recon- 
cile the idea of encroaching on kindness, when 
my only claim to their notice was a note from a 
stranger at a tavern. I never myself gave a 
letter under such a circumstance, and I believe 
I never shall ; but I thought I might not impro- 
perly use the one I had, for the simple purpose 
of gaining information. I have no reason to re- 
gret having done so, as my object in visiting the 
College was accomplished more easily, than 
would in all likelihood have been the case with- 
out any introduction, and I met with two polite 
gentlemen. 

Being one day at a private house in New 
York, I mentioned my intention of visiting the 
Lancastrian Female School, on which a lady 
present, said that she should take a pleasure in 
showing it to me. I was glad to avail myself of 
her offer, and fixed a time for the visit. On en- 
tering the school, she came forward to meet me, 
offered me her hand in the most courteous man- 
ner, and gave me all the needful information 



154 



POLITENESS. 



respecting the progress of the children. Her 
polite and fascinating manners could not but 
gain my admiration. On another occasion I was 
in a company, where a manuscript poem was 
read. It excited general attention, and I passed 
some commendation on it. Calling afterwards 
at the same house, the lady who had read it pre- 
sented me with a copy of it neatly written, and 
requested my acceptance of it. As it occupied 
several folio pages, I thought it manifested great 
politeness in her to take so much pains for 
my gratification. I still keep it in remembrance 
of her. 

When at Washington in the Capitol, I en- 
quired of a gentleman in the lobby of the Se- 
nate-chamber, if there was admission for stran- 
gers. He immediately conducted me to a seat, 
which I observed from a paper on the door, was 
appropriated to lawyers of the Supreme Court 
and a few other privileged persons. On ex- 
pressing my surprise that he should shew me to 
this seat, he told me that he was Vice-President 
of the United States, and in virtue of his office 
had a right to invite any person to it. I acknow- 
ledged his condescension and politeness, telling 
him at the same time, that if I had been aware 
of his station, I certainly should not have made 



POLITENESS. 



155 



so free as to speak to him. He soon after took 
his seat as President of the Senate. 

The Supreme Court of Virginia being in ses- 
sion at Richmond when I was there, I entered 
it to deliver a letter to the Deputy-Governor of 
the State, he being a barrister. As soon as he 
had read it, he left his seat, and coming forward 
offered me his hand, and begged to know if he 
could assist me in any way. He invited me to 
his house ; but I told him that I should have 
no opportunity for a visit, and merely requested 
the favour of a ticket of admission to the jail. 
He directly furnished me with the latter ; and 
as if willing that the few minutes I could spare, 
should be improved to my advantage, began to 
ask my opinion of their Courts of Justice. So 
much pleasantry and politeness I seldom wit- 
nessed in America at a first interview. 

But if I were to relate all the instances of po- 
liteness in those to whom I had letters, I should 
fill a volume. I therefore prefer showing the 
general polite behaviour of the upper class, by a 
reference to the important subject of slavery. I 
was cautioned by several gentlemen in Pennsyl- 
vania and New York, not to introduce it as a 
topic in any company in Virginia, as with my 



156 



POLITENESS. 



sentiments on it, I should probably excite ill will 
and subject myself to obloquy. I could not 
however take their advice so far as to close my 
mouth on the subject. I introduced it several 
times ; and after I had a little ascertained the 
feeling of the inhabitants, so as to know how 
to treat it in the least offensive manner, I spoke 
about it with great freedom, My remarks were 
listened to with patience, and in almost every case 
met by great composure. Whatever might be 
the feelings of the Virginian planters, they had 
so much politeness as not to take offence at the 
boldness with w r hich I condemned slavery, al- 
though not accustomed to hear it spoken of as 
it was by me. I had one most remarkable in- 
stance, that my freedom so far from giving of- 
fence, was received with good humour and po- 
liteness, that it deserves recording. In travel- 
ling by the stage from Lexington to Staunton, 
I had as fe]low r -passenger a planter, who had just 
returned from Louisiana, whither he had been in 
search of land, he having it in contemplation to 
cultivate sugar there. He informed me very can- 
didly of the horrible condition and treatment of 
the slaves in that State. I gave him my opinion 
of the impolicy and injustice of slavery in un- 
equivocal terms, condemning it as disgraceful 
to the country. To suppose that my remarks 



POLITENESS. 



157 



were agreeable would be preposterous, as he was 
by his own account the owner of several hundred 
slaves ; yet so little was he disposed to take in 
ill part what I said, that on my telling him I 
w r as proceeding to Harper's Ferry, he gave me 
his name and address. His house, he said, was 
only twelve miles from that village, and if I 
would call and pay him a visit, and stop a day 
or two with him, he would lend me a horse to 
ride there, and his servant should go with me 
on another to bring it back. Was politeness 
evermore conspicuously manifested? I regretted 
that I had not an opportunity of at least giving 
him a call ; but I found that it would too much 
interfere with my arrangements. If slavery could 
be discussed with a Virginian planter without 
reference to his own interests, and as a mere ab- 
stract question, the abstaining from recrimina- 
tion would not be worth remarking. But when 
it is considered that a great part of his property, 
or supposed property is in slaves, great credit is 
due to him on the score of politeness. Satan 
said that Job would curse God to his face, if he 
destroyed his property; and it would cause no 
wonder to find a slave-owner retorting with as- 
perity, when the institutions on which the sta- 
bility of his property rests, are attacked. The 
forbearance must therefore enhance our sense 



158 



POLITENESS. 



of his politeness. How much then must it be 
increased when a person behaves as this gentle- 
man did to me ! 

I several times witnessed a trait of politeness 
of a very striking kind. On calling at a house 
after the family have dined, they have had a cloth 
spread for me, and that I might feel myself tho- 
roughly comfortable, one of them has taken a 
seat at the table and eaten a little to bear me 
company. I remember an instance of this in 
the mother of the family at New York, with 
whom, as I mentioned in the preceding chapter, 
I unexpectedly contracted a warm friendship. 
She was one of the politest women I met in the 
United States, or indeed have met in the course of 
my life. But hardly any of the numerous cases of 
politeness I received, is more strongly impressed 
on my memory, than one which occurred to me 
at, a time when my feelings were painfully exci- 
ted by distressing intelligence of a domestic na- 
ture. I called at a house to which I had before 
been introduced, when on mentioning the cir- 
cumstance, such sympathy was manifested as was 
truly grateful and consolatory. A lady put into 
my hands a short poem suitable to the occasion, 
and endeavoured to make me feel as lightly as 
possible the cause of my affliction. The polite- 



POLITENESS. 



159 



ness shown in the moments of gaiety is pleasing ; 
that in those of sadness tends to excite gratitude. 

Lest the accounts I have given should how- 
ever lead to the supposition that nothing but po- 
liteness prevails amongst the upper class in 
America, I must state that I met with two in- 
stances of repulsive coldness in gentlemen to 
whom I delivered introductory letters, though 
these letters were from a high quarter, and that 
one of the members of Congress behaved like 
a brute. Some travellers would probably dwell 
on such behaviour with malignancy, and exhi- 
bit it as a specimen of the national character. 
This however would be evidently unjust; for 
in all countries, there will be some of manners 
below the general standard. Where that stand- 
ard, as in America, is high, the contrast becomes 
more striking. If their politeness is in any re- 
spect deficient, it is as it respects gentility. It 
is plain that they do not, in general, understand 
the art of doing little things with grace. I 
could not but notice that when as a mark of 
respect, some small present was tendered to my 
acceptance, it was not done in that captivating 
manner which imparts value to a trifle for the 
sake of the donor ; yet in minute attentions 
they are not backward. No person of proper 



160 



POLITENESS* 



sensibility can mix in American society of the 
better sort, without feeling the spring of grati- 
tude, affection and cheerfulness. Where polite- 
ness is joined to other good and amiable quali- 
ties, how can it be otherwise ? 

Those who are unwilling to admit that the 
Americans are deserving of praise for their po- 
liteness, will perhaps urge that the instances I 
have given, are rather those of civility than po- 
liteness. But I confess that I cannot consent 
to consider them in that character solely. Ci- 
vility may certainly be a constituent in the be- 
haviour of one who knows not how to be polite, 
but when civility is shown by little acts of kind- 
ness which are prompted by a desire to please, 
and is united to suavity, it would be unjust to 
deny that it is entitled to be called politeness. 
This is the description of American politeness 
which is most generally visible. Whether it 
would be improved by the addition of compli- 
mentary gesture is a matter of taste ; but that 
it is not deficient in the more essential requisites 
I must maintain. I saw several whose manners 
would, I believe, be admired in any court of Eu- 
rope, provided that the fact of their being Ame- 
ricans was unknown ; for many persons seem to 
have adopted the idea that republicanism and 



POLITENESS. 



161 



refinement in manners are incompatible, an error 
which a short visit to the United States is suffi- 
cient to dissipate. 

Perhaps I cannot more strikingly illustrate the 
effects of their politeness in conjunction with other 
good and amiable qualities, than by adding, that 
on taking leave of many of them, I felt a wish 
arise in my heart, that our acquaintance might 
be renewed in a higher and better state of exist- 
ence. I remember that on one such occasion, 
Addison's Vision of Mirza occurred to my recol- 
lection, particularly the part where the Genius 
asks Mirza, if the habitations he had viewed were 
not objects worthy of his ambition. My heart 
responded, that the hope of enjoying everlasting 
happiness with some of the characters I have 
mentioned, was indeed a sufficient stimulus to 
become a candidate for the favour of Heaven. 



m 



CHAPTER XII. 



RELIGION. 

The importance of religion in civil society is too 
great not to demand great attention. No peo- 
ple, except perhaps the savages of Australia, 
have ever existed uninfluenced by religion of 
some kind. The characters of nations have 
been changed by it, and its revolutions have 
been as great as those of governments. In 
America, its effects, though similar to those it 
has produced in England, are not so exactly 
correspondent as to be passed over unnoticed. 

Assemblies of almost every denomination of 
Christians exist in the United States, generally in 
harmony. No religion being in alliance with the 
government, one great cause of jealousy and 
dislike is removed. No large endowments be- 
ing in possession of any denomination, and the 
incomes of the clergy being regulated in nearly 
all cases by their congregations, but little dispa- 
rity of station in society exists amongst them. 
Hence the proud, consequential air so obvious 
in some of the English clergy, is seldom or ne- 
ver seen. Nor is there much appearance of dif- 



RELIGION. 



163 



ference in dress between the clergy and the laity* 
Except that black is a more prevalent colour 
among the former than the latter, I observed 
nothing by way of distinction. Yet though 
without a badge to impress the populace with 
the opinion of sanctity, without gilded chariots 
to loll in, without the prospect of obtaining rich 
sinecures to operate as a stimulus, they have 
great influence. The rivalship between the 
different sects, instead of producing a constant 
jar as might be supposed, seems to be productive 
of a decent observance of religious duties 
amongst all classes. In few countries, if any, is 
public worship more generally attended than 
in the United States. Instances of openly avow- 
ed deism are rare. Persons who hold deistical 
opinions generally either keep them to them- 
selves, or veil them under the garb of flimsy hy- 
pocrisy. I recollect only two persons of all 
with whom I conversed on religion, who unhe- 
sitatingly proclaimed their disbelief in Christia- 
nity ; though I met with several whom I sus- 
pected to be concealed deists. In many parts 
a man's reputation would be seriously injured 
if he were to avow r himself one. 

But though instances of avowed deism are 
rare, a strong deistical feeling is apparent in the 

m 2 



164 



RELIGION. 



opposition made to missionary societies. Those 
societies have certainly deputed persons to the 
task of heathen conversion, who, in many in- 
stances, have been as little qualified for the duty 
as Robespierre to establish liberty. But because 
some of their agents have acted improperly, 
sometimes manifesting undue presumption, 
sometimes interfering too much with political af- 
fairs, and on most occasions evincing fanaticism, 
are we to infer that no good has resulted from 
their labours ? Far otherwise : but the Ameri- 
can opponents of those societies have endea- 
voured to persuade the public that evil, without 
any redeeming qualities, has been the result. 
On examining some of the numerous pamphlets 
on missionary societies, I was struck by observ- 
ing that the opposition to them was not founded 
on a well grounded jealousy. of the cause of 
Christ being injured, but in a concealed hatred 
to vital Christianity. Yet neither their labours 
against missions, nor against Christianity itself 
(which though concealed, are still apparent), 
have had the effect of withdrawing public sup- 
port from them : still less, of inducing a neglect 
of public worship, or a contempt for the prac- 
tises of it. 

From these circumstances, those persons who 



RELIGION. 



165 



suppose that a compulsory provision for the 
clergy is necessary to the support of Christianity, 
may see the groundlessness of their opinions. 
They may also learn that ecclesiastical authority 
may be maintained without an alliance with the 
State, in matters purely ecclesiastical. Prelacy, 
both Protestant and Catholic, is established in 
America ; and though with respect to the latter, 
it has been found defective on one or two oc- 
casions, that is no more than has been the case 
in England and Ireland with the Established 
Church. So long as Virginia continued a Bri- 
tish colony, the episcopal clergy were supported 
by tithes, or rather by a smaller provision of the 
same nature. In whom the superior authority 
was lodged I cannot state, there being no bishop 
in the colony. But I was assured by many per- 
sons that they were exceedingly lax in morals, 
and negligent of their duties ; so much so in- 
deed, that their Church sunk into disgrace from 
which it has not yet fully emerged. After the 
alliance with government was broken, an amend- 
ment was soon perceptible ; a convincing proof 
of the inutility of the alliance. Another point 
of importance proved by the experience of Ame- 
rica is, that edifices for public worship will be 
built and kept in repair, without any rate being 
levied on the inhabitants. Not only so, many 



166 



RELIGION. 



of them are not merely commodious and com- 
fortable ; they are ornamental. Their number 
too, seems quite as proportionate to the popula- 
tion as in England. This is exemplified in the 
following list of those within the limits of the 
city of New York, which will be examined with 
interest by such persons as like to trace the 
progress of religious sects. It was made out in 
the summer of 1823 : 

Episcopalians 15 Moravians 1 

Presbyterians 14 Evangelical Lutherans... 1 

Methodists 13 New Jerusalemites ...... 1 

Reformed Dutch 10 ReformedPresbyterians.l 

Baptists 10 AssociatePresby terians . 1 

Friends 4 Universalists 1 

Lutherans 2 Unitarians.. 1 

Catholics 2 Germ an Reformed 1 

Besides these, there are a Mariners' Church and 
one at the Aims-House, neither of which is 
exclusively for one body of professors, and a 
Jews' Synagogue. The population for whose use 
they are built, is about 130,000. Let this state- 
ment be compared with a similar one of Liver- 
pool, Manchester or Birmingham, and it will I 
believe be found to show, that accommodations 
for worshippers are equal, if not superior to those 
in each of those towns. Yet, be it again observ- 
ed, that every one in the United States is left 
at liberty to pay or not as he thinks fit, or, if 



RELIGION. 



16? 



there be any exception to this, it is I believe 
only in the small State of Rhode Island, where 
the original colonial charter is still in force : yet 
even there, it is optional with the person paying, 
to fix on the sect to which the amount levied 
shall be transferred. 

On looking over the list of the New York 
Churches, I was much struck by there being 
none belonging to the Congregationalists, who 
are so numerous in New England. I suppose 
that when persons of that denomination settle at 
New York, they join the Presbyterians, who dif- 
fer from them only in church government. 

Whether the Universalists correspond precise- 
ly in doctrine with the same people in England, 
I do not know. But this I know, that I was 
never so scandalized with the gloomy tenets of 
Calvinism, as with the principles contained in 
a book published by one of the most distinguish- 
ed Universalist preachers in America. The Cal- 
vinists reason on premises from which it is clear- 
ly deducible that God was the author of sin, 
though they themselves pretend that their prin- 
ciples are adverse to such a deduction. But 
what the Calvinists shrink from, this Universal- 
ist author unhesitatingly maintains 5 and it is 



168 



RELIGION. 



worthy of note, that he argues on Calvinistic 
grounds. No wonder therefore need be felt, 
that the Calvinists denounce Universalism with 
particular acrimony, just as persons are more 
angry with their professed friends who make an 
injudicious defence of them, than with their ene- 
mies who boldly attack them. The proverb too 
is verified that extremes meet. 

Often hearing mention made of revivals 
of religion, I was desirous of knowing what 
is meant by them. I found that the term was 
applied, to a sudden and general appearance in 
a neighbourhood, of conviction for sin and de- 
sire of holiness. On learning some particulars 
of these revivals, it was evident to me that there 
is often much deception in them. No doubt, on 
particular occasions of great calamity, such as 
pestilence or earthquake, men's minds are awak- 
ened to the necessity of preparation for death. 
Many at such times think seriously of salvation, 
who never thought of it before, as the fear of 
sudden death has a powerful operation on the 
mind. But it is difficult to suppose that on or- 
dinary occasions, in the midst of health and com- 
fort, a general change from carelessness to se- 
riousness can often occur. There is therefore 
no uncharitableness in attributing most of these 



RELIGION'. 



169 



revivals to fanaticism or hypocrisy. Human 
nature is so apt to deceive itself, that cases in- 
numerable might be cited of the workings of 
imagination bavins; been mistaken for the influ- 
ence of the Holy Spirit. The early Methodists 
fell into such errors, as is proved by their groan- 
ings and frantic gestures ; irregularities which 
the present Methodists in England discounte- 
nance. Nor were the Friends free from them, as 
may be seen in the case of Naylor mentioned in 
Hume's History of England, and in the lives of 
several of their ministers who candidly acknow- 
ledge them. In proportion as knowledge is dif- 
fused, we may expect persons will be more cau- 
tious in attaching importance to these revivals ; 
yet men of education and even erudition are at 
present in the habit of laying stress on them : at 
least, I found that to be the case with several. 
I doubt not that God is ready at all times to 
show mercy to the sincerely penitent who resolve 
to forsake their sins ; and when a reformation 
has taken place in their conduct, they will be 
desirous of influencing others to holiness by their 
example ; but though the effect may sometimes 
be extensive, in most cases it will be gradual. 

These religious revivals are not confined to adults 
if we are to believe their advocates, but extend 



170 



RELIGION. 



to children. I was diverted, though at the same 
time rather displeased, at a relation which was 
made to me by a gentleman, of a revival in the 
town of Petersburg, when amongst other things, 
he mentioned the particulars communicated to 
him by a little girl, of her experience in reli- 
gious matters. There can be no doubt that a 
child may be influenced by religious feelings at 
a very early age ; but it appears to me to be as 
absurd to teach a child who scarcely knows the 
right hand from the left, to talk of her experi- 
ence in the work of conversion, as to listen to 
a lecture from a swineherd on court etiquette. 
It is probable that the accustoming of children 
to talk much on religious subjects, may induce 
a habit of superficiality, adverse to that very 
prostration of soul which is supposed to be en- 
couraged by it. Religious conversation, when 
conducted in a right frame of mind and at suit- 
able times, is one of the strongest means of en- 
couraging piety and humility : but when com- 
menced at random on improper occasions, is 
generally as little beneficial as indigestible food 
to a weak stomach. The advocates for religious 
revivals have I fear in too many cases produced 
evils by encouraging those to talk, whom they 
should rather have persuaded to silent medi- 
tation, and in particular by persuading children 



RELIGION. i 171 



to use language fit only for their elders. Let it 
never be forgotten that in the time of Oliver 
Cromwell, there was more constant talk about 
religion joined to more hypocrisy than at almost 
any other period. 

I have said that harmony generally prevails 
amongst the different denominations. I happen- 
ed to call at a house at Norfolk in Virginia with 
an introductory letter to a clergyman, at a time 
when he was immediately able to give me an op- 
portunity of witnessing something of it in that 
town. Several of his clerical brethren of differ- 
ent denominations, had met at his house to dis- 
cuss some missionary proposals. They gave their 
views of them in a manner testifying much cor- 
diality. I observed that they generally used the 
appellation of brother in addressing each other. 
After listening some time to the discussion, I re- 
quested to give my opinion. Though quite at 
variance with theirs, they heard it without show 7 - 
ing any of that impatience so characteristic of 
bigoted minds. I was favourably impressed with 
their zeal and charity, two virtues often widely 
separate. The only instances of hostility to 
others that came under my notice, were to 
the Universalists, Unitarians and Jews. But 
then it is to be considered that the other sects 



17^ RELIGION. 

look upon them, as the inculcators of doctrines 
adverse to the well-being of any Christian com- 
munity. But except hearing them branded as 
Deists, an appellation assignable to those only 
who deny that God has ever revealed his will, I 
noticed little in the language used respecting 
them inconsistent with Gospel charity. Doc- 
trines and principles may be condemned in 
strong terms, without asperity to the teachers of 
them. Protestants generally proclaim the ador- 
ation of the elements by Catholics as idolatrous 
and damnable, yet there are few, it is presum- 
able, who would dispute the piety of such men 
as Fenelon, Sir Thomas More, or even that 
doughty champion Bellarmin. 

When I was at Washington a Unitarian cler- 
gyman preached before Congress in the House 
of Representatives, in which worship is regu- 
larly performed every week during the session, 
the minister for the day being chosen by the 
Speaker. The following week an Episcopal 
clergyman in his own Church, denounced the 
Divine vengeance on the nation for allowing its 
legislative body to be corrupted by Unitarian 
doctrines. This, and another fact I am going 
to mention, may show that bigotry sometimes 
rears its head ; for bad as Unitarianism may be 



RELIGION. 



173 



thought (and to me it appears irreconcileable 
with the Gospel covenant), surely the circum- 
stance of a single sermon being preached before 
Congress, is insufficient to call for' such terms 
as were used by the Episcopalian. And what is 
to be said in defence of a Presbyterian clergy- 
man in New York, who published a sermon en- 
titled, " The Pestilence a punishment for public 
sins," when amongst the causes assigned by him 
for the city's being visited by yellow fever, we 
find one to be, that the citizens had elected a 
Jew to serve the office of sheriff? Just as if God 
should be more offended with the people during 
a Jew's shrievalty, than at any other time. A 
Jew is as competent to have the custody of pri- 
sons, as to transact merchandise ; and who would 
think it wrong to employ a Jew to act as agent 
or broker ? 

The affairs of most of the churches are regu- 
lated by annual conferences. I attended a sit- 
ting of that of the coloured Methodists, being 
admitted by special favour. The discussions 
were maintained orderly. Great care was taken 
in the appointment of deacons to exclude unfit 
persons. I was also present at the General As- 
sembly of the Presbyterians, the doors of which 
were wide open. There seemed to be more ora- 



RELIGION. 



torical display than evangelical humility. The 
Moderator made one remark during my presence 
of very questionable soundness. " It is better," 
said he, " to decide amiss, than not to decide at 
all." I believe that the Presbyterians pray for 
divine assistance in the settlement of their affairs. 
If so, is it not something akin to mockery to de- 
cide so hastily as to endanger justice ? Yet this re- 
mark of the Moderator passed without comment. 

Before dismissing the general subject of reli- 
gion, it is proper to state that in the remote set- 
tlements, little or no public worship takes place 
at stated times. But when an itinerant preacher 
or a missionary, chances to be at one of them, 
he generally collects the inhabitants and worship 
is performed. After a time, some one amongst 
them, if no regular minister be present, reads 
prayers and gives out a hymn at a stated place 
and time, and thus by degrees a congregation is 
formed, sufficiently large to build a church. It 
may here be proper to mention that Deism has 
been so far abandoned by some English Deists 
who emigrated to Illinois, that they have esta- 
blished weekly worship under the Christian name, 
from a conviction of its salutary influence on the 
welfare of their settlement. How forcibly does 
this demonstrate the excellence of Christianity L 



CHAPTER XIII. 



THE EPISCOPALIANS. 

The Protestant Episcopal Church in America is 
a scion of the Church of England. It extends 
into most parts of the country, and has nine or 
ten dioceses. As it has in several respects de- 
viated from its mother-church, and as its present 
state must be interesting to Englishmen, I pro- 
pose to give a few particulars concerning it. 

A Convention of each diocese is held annually, 
the Bishop presiding as chairman, and having a 
casting vote ; and a general Convention of the 
whole church is held triennially. The latter 
consists of two houses, the Bishops forming the 
upper one, and clerical and lay delegates the 
lower. Perhaps this assembly would be more 
appropriately called a Conclave, as all its pro- 
ceedings are with closed doors. Like the Church 
of England, this Church is divided into two par- 
ties, one giving an Arminian, the other a Calvi- 
nistic interpretation to its obscure articles. I 
apprehend that these parties are much more 
nearly balanced in America than in England ; 



176 



THE EPISCOPALIANS. 



though I believe the Arminian party has the as- 
cendancy in the former as well as in the latter. 
The gradations of rank amongst the American 
clergy are scarcely perceptible. They have no 
Archbishop, no Archdeacons, no Deans. The 
incomes allotted to the Bishops are not so enor- 
mous as to place them at an almost immeasura- 
ble distance from the inferior Clergy, and they 
are not exempted from parochial duty ; yet I 
heard no complaints of their want of attention 
to their episcopal functions. The senior Bishop 
takes precedence of the others by courtesy, but 
has no spiritual authority over them. 

Sir Richard Steele observes, that the differ- 
ence between the Churches of Rome and Eng- 
land is, that the Church of Rome is always in 
the right, and the Church of England never in 
the wrong. Certain it is, that since the days of 
Archbishop Laud, the latter has been as careful 
as the former to guard against innovation, that 
word which intimidates so many from the at- 
tempt to effect improvements however essential. 
The Church in America, however, has made va- 
rious alterations in the Articles, the Liturgy, and 
the Ceremonies ; most, if not all of which are 
such, as would meet the concurrence of the most 
enlightened men in the Church of England, if 



THE EPISCOPALIANS. 



177 



once introduced. It would have been surpris- 
ing indeed, if the reformers from Popery had 
been able at once to free their minds from all 
the prejudices of education, and establish a 
church conformable to pristine purity. As well 
might we expect to find a man who had long 
been confined in a dark dungeon, capable of 
bearing the full light of the sun when brought 
suddenly to view it, without being dazzled and 
overpowered by the brilliancy. Yet were there 
some amongst them who would have proceeded 
further in the work of reformation, could they 
have persuaded their brethren to act in unison 
with them. Of this number was Bishop Hooper, 
one of the first martyrs to the cruel bigotry of 
Mary, and whose name deserves to be had in 
everlasting remembrance for his faith, zeal and 
willingness to suffer. But for the untimely 
death of Edward VI. it is probable that the 
wishes of Hooper and his friends would have 
been in part realized ; for that pious prince was 
favourable to needful changes. But Elizabeth 
so far from desiring to carry forward the work 
of improvement, used her influence to thwart it B 
She had considerable attachment to some of the 
discarded ceremonies ; how then could she wish 
to place the Protestant Church at a still greater 
distance from the Catholic? James I. made 

N 



178 THE EPISCOPALIANS. 

several wise regulations in Council, for the be- 
nefit of the Church, but from causes which are 
not sufficiently known, several of them continued 
inoperative. The troublous times which fol- 
lowed his reign, were not adapted for a calm and 
judicious examination of abuses in order to their 
removal. The minds of men were drawn to 
abuses in the civil government, and when after- 
wards the contention between the king and par- 
liament became religious, the ground of dispute 
was not the refusal of the former to make need- 
ful alterations in the doctrines and ceremonies 
of the Church, but the propriety of supporting 
episcopacy. The harsh treatment which many 
of the loyalists received from Cromwell, nearly 
all of whom were averse to the Presbyterian 
Church established under his sanction, led them 
to cling pertinaciously to every part of the over- 
turned Church. Hence almost immediately after 
the Restoration of Charles II. the Directory 
was superseded by the Book of Common Prayer, 
the supporters of episcopacy showing at the same 
time very little desire to conciliate the advocates 
of presbyterianism. The attempts to produce 
uniformity were evidently conducted in an un- 
yielding spirit, and ended in the settlement of 
affairs much in their former state. Some partial 
attempts have been made since that period, but 



THE EPISCOPALIANS. 



179 



always unsuccessfully. The reason why the dig- 
nitaries of the Church are averse to any altera- 
tion, is to be found in the fears they entertain, 
that no reformation in spirituals can be effected 
without endangering the temporalities. Thus, 
notwithstanding the opinions of such men as 
Lord Bacon, Archbishop Tillotson, Bishop Bur- 
net and Bishop Watson, errors and inconsist- 
ences are continued from age to age, as if their 
removal were unnecessary. 

In the United States, there were no large ec- 
clesiastical possessions to be put in jeopardy ; 
accordingly, almost immediately after the Inde- 
pendence, and as soon as the different episcopal 
congregations were consolidated under a gene- 
ral head, some alterations were made. From 
time to time others have taken place ; and the 
object of the remainder of this chapter will be to 
exhibit the most material of them, with such re- 
marks as may suggest themselves. As the pre- 
sent state of the Episcopal Church is compara- 
tively little known to the English public, the 
statement cannot fail to be interesting to many. 

In the first place let me mention that the 
Athanasian Creed is omitted. Archbishop Til- 
lotson wished the Church well rid of it ; and a 

N 2 



180 



THE EPISCOPALIANS. 



very good riddance it is for the Americans, since 
whatever tends unnecessarily to produce disuni- 
on as that creed does, is improperly retained. 
Suppose that a Bishop or other dignitary, were 
at the present day to draw up a creed, and ap- 
pend to it a remark like this ; " This is my be- 
lief, and if you do not believe as I do, you will 
be damned/' would not every person censure 
his presumption and arrogance? Why then 
should any particular respect be paid to the Creed 
of the Bishop of Alexandria? True, he lived 
1500 years ago, but darkness had then spread 
over a great part, perhaps the greater part, of 
the Christian Church. The damnatory denun- 
ciations in the Athanasian Creed, are uttered, it 
is presumable, by few persons without some 
mental reservation. Bishop Burnet candidly ad- 
mits that they are not to be received without 
qualification. How lamentable is it then, that 
they should be continued at all ! The creed it- 
self seems to aim at explicitness on a very mys- 
terious subject, which it would be better to leave 
in the words of scripture. The Americans have 
acted wisely in rejecting it altogether. 

The Article respecting the Homilies contains 
a proviso, that those parts of them bearing on the 
Jaws and constitution of England are to be re- 



THE EPISCOPALIANS. 



181 



garded as of no authority. This proviso was of 
course necessary, but perhaps it would have been 
better if the Article had been omitted. Why is 
it necessary for a Church to testify, that a vo- 
lume of sermons written three centuries ago, 
contains Christian doctrine ? It seems quite ri- 
diculous to make a fundamental article respect- 
ing them. If we examine the explications of 
Burnet or Tomline, we shall find that neither of 
those prelates attaches so much value to them 
as to render it apprehensible that the Church if 
new modelled, would think the retention of the 
Article indispensable. Besides, there are seve- 
ral reasons, which so far as I have information 
have never weighed with the Americans, why it 
should be discontinued. The apocryphal books 
are often referred to in them as if they were ca- 
nonical. The Book of Wisdom is quoted eleven 
times in the Homily for rogation week. That 
of Baruch is cited as part of the scriptures in the 
first Homily against rebellion, and he is twice 
styled a Prophet, In the second Homily of alms- 
deeds, the Book of Tobit is mentioned as an in- 
spired work, and in the sentences to be read at 
the offertory, it is placed with those of acknow- 
ledged inspiration. How are these particulars 
to be reconciled with the sixth Article ? In the 
Homily against rebellion, the doctrine of passive 



182 



THE EPISCOPALIANS, 



obedience and non-resistance is insisted on in 
such a manner, as to condemn totally the strug- 
gle of the American colonies against the power 
and authority of Great Britain. In that on the 
peril of idolatry, there are one or two positions, 
which would, I suspect, be received by the Ame- 
rican churches in a limited sense only. The first 
Homily on swearing, contains a paragraph in 
which matrimony is spoken of as a sacrament. 
But the most remarkable passage occurs in the 
third Homily on Charity, where Henry VIII. 
is characterised as God's faithful and true mi- 
nister, enlightened in heart by him, and endow- 
ed with the same spirit as Jehoshaphat, Josiah 
and Hezekiah ! Taking these things into con- 
sideration, it may be reasonably concluded that 
the Episcopal Church in America would have 
acted more consistently in omitting the Article 
under notice, than retaining it with so partial a 
qualification as it has done. A principal cause . 
for its retention was, I apprehend, a desire to be 
as near the Church of England as possible. The 
latter body could well dispense with it ; but a 
fondness for antiquity would make many averse 
to yield it. The retention of things after their 
original use has subsided, is that to which all 
public bodies are prone ; but, like the wooden 
centreing of a stone arch, they are better re- 



THE EPISCOPALIANS. 



183 



moved when no longer of use : they cumber 
without beautifying. 

The thirty-seventh article is thus worded. 
" The power of the civil magistrate extendeth to 
all men, as well clergy as laity, in all things tem- 
poral ; but hath no authority in things purely 
spiritual. And we hold it to be the duty of all 
men who profess the Gospel, to pay respectful 
obedience to the civil authority, regularly and 
legitimately constituted." In this instance, the 
American Church differs essentially from the 
English. Would our controversialists admit that 
the king's authority is confined exclusively to 
temporals ? Certainly not ; because that would 
be to deny his claim to be head of the Church, 
and his right to appoint special days for fasting 
or thanksgiving. 

In the marriage ceremony those parts are 
omitted which offend modern delicacy, as well 
as the nonsensical phrase, " with my body I thee 
worship. 5 ' It is remarkable that the ring is still 
retained, for what can be more Popish ? In the 
reign of James I. Lord Bacon suggested that 
its use was objectionable, as appearing even to 
the vulgar, a ceremony not grave enough. Now 
if, two centuries ago, such was the opinion en- 



184 



THE EPISCOPALIAN'S. 



tertained of it, where can be the advantage of 
it at the present day ? It is supposed that the 
ring in matrimony, and the signing with a cross 
in baptism, were continued by the reformers to 
conciliate some whose Popish prejudices were 
strong. The American Church has decided 
that the latter shall be omitted by the minister, 
if the parents desire it. Why should not the 
former be put on a similar ground ? 

In the burial service, instead of the clause, 
" in sure and certain hope of the resurrection to 
eternal life," they have substituted, " looking for 
the general resurrection in the last day, and the 
life of the world to come." , Those who consi- 
der how many minds amongst both clergy and 
laity in England, have been dissatisfied with the 
original words, will most likely think that an al- 
teration was called for. If it were proposed to 
change the words adopted for those discontinued, 
I believe few or none would be found to advocate 
the change. 

The Commination for the first day of Lent 
has been struck out: but I suspect that several if 
not most of the English Clergy and Bishops would 
be reluctant to give it up. And yet it has been 
called and not without reason a solemn farce. 



THE EPISCOPALIANS. 



185 



AVhat are we to think of a Church, which for three 
centuries has been expressing a wish to have a 
godly discipline restored, and yet has made no at- 
tempts at a restoration ? But there is another, and 
perhaps a weightier objection to the Commina- 
tion. The Congregation are taught to make so- 
lemn profession to God that they do then, indivi- 
dually and collectively, turn to him with weep- 
ing, fasting, and praying. In how few in- 
stances, this can be said with sincerity, let any 
impartial person judge. 

In the office for the visitation of the sick, 
sundry prayers are added, while the form of ab- 
solution is omitted. It is indeed lamentable to 
think, that the Protestant Church of England 
should retain one of the most objectionable 
parts of the Church of Rome, especially as few 
of the Clergy really believe they possess the 
power of pardoning sins. Yet how strong are the 
words ! " Our Lord Jesus Christ who hath left 
power to his Church to absolve all sinners who 
truly repent and believe in him, of his great 
mercy forgive thee thine offences : and by his 
authority committed to me, I absolve thee from 
all thy sins in the name of the Father, and of the 
Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. " What is 
the meaning of this ? Taken according to its 
express wording, Popish absolution, and nothing 



186 



THE EPISCOPALIANS. 



short of it, is here maintained. If a meaning 
not obvious to common understandings be to be 
drawn from it, why are not the words altered ? 
It is very dangerons in religious as well as in ci- 
vil matters, to say one thing, and mean another. 
It is worse than speaking in an unknown tongue. 
But the Americans have not been consistent in 
one point; for though they have rejected the 
sentence just quoted, they have retained in the 
ordination service, the words spoken by the Bish- 
op empowering the minister to forgive sins. If 
they believe that such a power is conferred by 
ordination, why have they struck out the only 
passage in the prayer-book where it is put in re- 
quisition ? I w;is present at the ordination of a 
Bishop in a church in Philadelphia, on which 
occasion a sermon was preached by the Bishop 
of the Eastern Diocese, who enlarged on this 
very topic. As far as I was able to understand 
him (for his delivery was languid and weari- 
some), he insisted that the power of absolution 
given to the Apostles, had as a matter of course 
descended to their successors. If such be the 
opinion of the Episcopalians in America, I know 
not how to account for their rejection of the sen- 
tence before given. 



Several additions are made to the Liturgy. 
There are forms for consecrating a Church, for 



THE EPISCOPALIANS. 



187 



attendance on prisoners, and for private or fa- 
mily devotion. And in addition to the Psalmody, 
there is a small collection of Hymns allowed to 
be used. I was surprised in looking over the 
latter to observe one or two of Dr. Watts's, 
How must this stagger some of our high Church- 
men, who regard the compositions of Dissenters 
with as much mistrust, as the Chinese the inno- 
vations of foreigners. 

I suppose that some latitude is given either to 
the Clergyman or his congregation, in the use of 
vestments, as in some Churches the surplice is 
laid aside, and in others the cassock. I was at 
a funeral at Baltimore one winter's day when the 
weather was severe, on which occasion the Cler- 
gyman Was not in any way distinguished from the 
attendants, he having like them, a comfortable 
cloak over him. The service consisted of only a 
few sentences, lasting about five minutes, he 
thinking, I suppose, that more hurt might be 
taken by remaining long in the cold, than good 
from hearing the exhortations. The whole ser- 
vice is considerably abridged from the English. 

In none of the Churches in America is there 
such a person as parish clerk. The responses 
are made by the congregation at large ; a mode 



188 



THE EPISCOPALIANS. 



far more impressive than that of hearing them 
repeated by a clerk in a drawling tone of voice. 
Another part of worship in which they differ 
from the English Church is in their style of 
preaching. The English clergy preach sermons 
which are often but imperfectly understood by the 
illiterate ; while the American clergy, so far as 
I could form an opinion from those I heard, are 
unambitious of conciliating the pride of learning 
by elaborate, argumentative discourses, and 
strive rather to be practical and simple than spe- 
culative and complex. The orderly, religious 
part of the poor in England have become great- 
ly alienated from the Establishment owing to 
the false notions of the clergy. The Episcopal 
Church in America seems to be as much in 
their affections as can reasonably be expected. 
I once heard part of a sermon preached to a 
number of poor weavers in London, the style of 
which was so remote from common apprehen- 
sion, that I had a difficulty in understanding the 
preacher. He compared the glory of the future 
state of being to theprismatic colours ; but to one 
unacquainted with Sir Isaac Newton's optical dis- 
coveries, the comparison no more illustrated his 
positions than black reflects white. Such an 
egregious departure from common propriety I 
never witnessed in America, nor indeed any ap» 



THE EPISCOPALIANS. 189 



proach to it. No Protestant church in America 
could long preserve itself from decay, if such a 
course were commonly pursued by its clergy. 

It is said that the Episcopalians number in 
their body a greater proportion of the fashion- 
able than the Presbyterians ; the reason for 
which is stated to be, that they are less particu- 
lar as to dress, and other similar matters. Pro- 
bably the organs in the Churches of the former 
allure some. I do not know that the Presbyte- 
rians absolutely proscribe them, but I do not re- 
collect having seen one in any of their Churches. 
On the contrary, the Episcopal Churches are ge- 
nerally furnished with them, where the congre- 
gations are sufficiently rich to purchase them. 
Another cause may be, that concealed and avow- 
ed Deists, though for what reason I cannot state, 
seem generally to prefer the Episcopalians to 
any other body of Christians. This is well 
known to be the case in England, and excites 
no wonder, as it is natural that they should lean 
to that body which is supported by the most 
distinguished persons in the land. But in Ame- 
rica, where no Church has any legal pre-emin- 
ence, and where a Methodist or a Baptist is re- 
garded with as much respect as any other pro- 
fessor, we might suppose that a Deist would as 



190 



THE EPISCOPALIANS. 



readily filiate himself with one denomination as 
another, except where extravagancies in conduct 
or language take the place of moderation. The 
friends of the Episcopal Church will probably 
urge this deistical preference as a proof of its 
adaptation to its purposes, since persons hostile 
to Christianity relinquish their opposition when 
they enter within its walls : its enemies on the 
contrary will represent the same preference, as 
indicating that its doctrines and discipline are 
so little consonant to the strictness of Chris- 
tianity, that those make alliance with it who 
would scornfully spurn a purer system. What- 
ever may be the cause, the fact is I believe un- 
disputed and indisputable. 



CHAPTER XIV. 



THE CATHOLICS. 



The State of Maryland being first settled by 
Catholics, it has a larger proportion of them than 
most of the other States. Taking the whole 
country into consideration, their numbers are 
probably not a tenth of the population. But 
in no part are they viewed with any jealousy. 
The people have no more fear of losing their 
liberties by admitting them to places of profit 
and trust in the judicial or administrative de- 
partments of the government, or by electing 
them to seats in the legislature, than from an in- 
vading army packed and paid by the Pope him- 
self. The American Catholics are as warm 
friends to rational liberty, and as averse to per- 
secution as the Presbyterians or Episcopalians ; 
and it is as unjust to charge them with the 
crimes of their ancestors, as either of the other 
bodies. It is well known that the Presbyterians 
who fled from persecution in England, became 
themselves persecutors in America. In conse- 
quence of this, and from some charges of a si- 
milar kind that can be brought against them in 
Scotland, Holland and Switzerland, a recent 



192 



THE CATHOLICS. 



controversialist in New Jersey has endeavoured 
to convince his readers that persecution is, if 
not a constituent part of the Presbyterian creed, 
at least, a natural result of it. The Episcopal 
Church of England has shown itself a persecut- 
ing Church in various periods of its history. Yet 
I presume that no candid person would charge 
any denomination of Protestants at the present 
day, as wishing either secretly or openly to abet 
persecution. Why then should the Catholics 
be viewed with suspicion and hatred ? Because, 
it is said, they have a persecuting creed, and 
have shown themselves at all times when in 
power, the friends of tyranny, priestcraft and 
intolerance. Whatever may be their creed, cer- 
tain it is that enlightened Catholics have no more 
wish to tread in the bloody footsteps of their 
ancestors, than Protestants to kneel at the ele- 
vation of the host. And the history of various 
Catholic countries shows that religious liberty 
may be enjoyed under them as well as under 
Protestants. Fenelon and other Catholic prelates 
have testified as strongly against persecution as 
their Protestant opponents. Contrast his cha- 
racter with Laud's, and how superior in this re- 
spect does it appear ! 

The Americans finding that no evils arise 



THE CATHOLICS. 



193 



from placing all religious parties on a level as it 
concerns government, are often puzzled to as- 
certain the opposition made by the English Dis- 
senters to the admittance of the Catholics into 
power. They can conceive that Churchmen 
from some fear for their temporalities, may ea- 
sily be persuaded to think that such a change 
would be dangerous ; but it appears to them un- 
accountable, that the Dissenters who have no- 
thing to lose and every thing to gain, and who 
profess themselves the friends of civil and reli- 
gious liberty, should object to a measure so in- 
separably in accordance with their professed 
principles. Whenever I was questioned on this 
point, I was obliged to confess that it arose from 
prejudice, and from a little of the old Popish 
spirit which they charge upon the present Ca- 
tholics. In countries where there is an equality 
of rights, there can be no more danger from the 
Catholics than any other class. The experience 
of America abundantly proves this ; and it is 
to be hoped will shame intolerant Dissenters 
(for happily all are not intolerant) into more li- 
berality and justice. 

The boast of the Catholics, that their Church 
is both unchangeable and unchanged, is like other 
boasts, more than is true. Formerly it was a 

o 



194 



THE CATHOLICS. 



persecuting Church. Now, it has ceased to be 
such in most parts of the world. The beneficial 
effects of the Reformation were not confined to 
those who separated from its community : they 
extended to those who remained in it. The 
light of reason and common sense diffused at 
that memorable era, has dispersed much of the 
ancient darkness in which bigotry and supersti- 
tion enveloped themselves. Galileo might now 
support the Copernican system without fear of 
the Inquisition ; Roger Bacon might pursue 
his chemical studies without the imputation of 
magic; and St. Dunstan, however good a me- 
chanician, would certainly not gain the credit of 
having pulled the Devil by the nose. And if 
some German prince, now and then sets up for 
a Thaumaturgus, he incurs the laughter of the 
sensible part of the community. Still, it must 
be admitted, that it is principally in countries 
where Catholics are mixed with Protestants, and 
where a free press is established, that the Popish 
superstitions and mummeries have lost their as- 
tonishing influence on the public mind. In the 
United States, as in England, Catholicism ap- 
pears a very different thing to what it is in Spain 
or Italy. The priests bear a good character; 
morality has taken the place of lewdness and li- 
centiousness ; and processions to dazzle and be- 



THE CATHOLICS. 1Q5 

wilder the multitude are unknown. Still less in 
America, would the juggle of liquefying the 
blood of St. Januarius, or the virtuous qualities 
of the parings of St. Anthony's nails, obtain any 
credit. If there be persons silly enough to be- 
lieve in such nonsense, they are prudent enough 
not to divulge their opinions, lest the general 
laugh should be directed against them. Even 
the infallibility of the Pope is treated by the 
American Catholics, as it was by Henry VIII. 
in the latter part of his reign. His authority 
they consider binding when coincident with their 
w r ishes, but of no power when at variance. The 
Bishop of Philadelphia suspended one of his 
priests ; the Archbishop of Baltimore confirmed 
the decision of his suffragan ; an appeal to Rome 
had a similar result : but regardless of these pro- 
ceedings, the parishioners supported their pastor. 
Of course there was a party who espoused the 
cause of the Bishop ; but I believe that few 
amongst them would consent to an unlimited 
obedience to Papal bulls. The very circumstance 
however, of the Catholics having approximated 
to the Protestants, may be a cause of the reform- 
ed doctrines not becoming general amongst them. 
The grosser absurdities being removed or kept 
out of sight, those which are retained are likely 
to be adhered to pertinaciously. The ridicule 

o<2 



196 



THE CATHOLICS* 



of the Protestants is less felt, and less regarded. 
As a proof of the difference between American 
Catholicism at the present day, and that of Eu- 
rope prior to the Reformation, I may mention 
that a Catholic in Virginia, with whom I was con- 
versing respecting their doctrines and practices., 
disbelieved that the sale of indulgences had ever 
been allowed in their Church. The account of 
Tetzel he viewed as a Protestant fabrication. 

The less absurdity there is in any system of 
religion which has many votaries, the more se- 
cure it is of maintaining its ground in an en- 
lightened age. The more enlightened the age 
is, the less likelihood is there of absurdities be- 
ing established except under the influence of 
worldly advantage. Hence, though monachism 
may obtain a few establishments in America, it 
is not likely to become extensive ; nor is there 
any danger of the horrible ancient cruelties be- 
ing revived. A sinful brother or sister will ne- 
ver be told to go in peace into the niche, which 
is to be enclosed on the living victim. Deeds 
like this, whatever Catholics may say to the con- 
trary, were certainly done in former ages. To 
deny them is as preposterous as to deny the bar- 
barous Acts of Faith of the Inquisition. That 
they no longer exist is owing mainly to the 



THE CATHOLICS. 



197 



mental light which dawned at the Reformation, 
and which has been gradually increasing almost 
ever since. Good government and a free press 
render innoxious the principles of the Catholics ; 
a truth, which it is to be hoped will in future be 
disputed by none but those interested in support- 
ing abuses in Church and State. It ought too, 
to be borne in mind, that when Lord Baltimore 
settled the Constitution of the colony of Mary- 
land, he established the equitable principle of 
allowing the eligibility of Christians, of whatever 
denomination they might be, for all the offices 
of government. This example being set by a 
Catholic, in an age when the principles of civil 
and religious liberty were very imperfectly un- 
derstood, ought to convince persons hostile to a 
concession of equal rights to the Catholics, of 
their own inferior sense of justice. Penn, when 
he issued proposals for colonizing Pennsylvania, 
offered protection and equality to all without 
distinction of religious belief, and guarantied 
them afterwards by law, for which he has re- 
ceived applause of the highest kind : but the 
fact is, that he followed instead of leading, in the 
path of even-handed justice. It was a Catholic 
who first led the way. All the American States 
at the present day have Constitutions framed on 
the basis of the same equality as the colonies of 



198 



THE CATHOLICS. 



Maryland and Pennsylvania; the benefit of which 
is felt by all and acknowledged by all. The co- 
lonial legislature of New York had at one time 
exclusory laws operating on the Catholics : their 
repeal produced nothing but good. From these 
circumstances, may we not cherish the hope that 
the day is approaching, when England will adopt 
a similar policy towards them ? Let not that 
country which was the first to exhibit to the 
world a government founded on rational princi- 
ples of liberty (for the Grecian and Italian re- 
publics were badly framed) be the last to per- 
form an act of justice to men who profess the 
same principles as the Barons at Runnymead. 



CHAPTER XV. 



THE FRIENDS. 



Though the Friends are a more numerous body 
in the United States than in Great Britain, their 
influence in society at large is evidently less. 
Instead of co-operating with other Christian pro- 
fessors, as far as they can without compromise 
of principle, they stand aloof Instead of trying 
to find points of union, they seem to delight in 
proving the incompatibility of reconciling their 
principles with those of others, in a harmonious 
design to promote the general welfare of the 
community. The Friends in England are known 
to be warm supporters of the Bible Society. The 
Friends in America on the contrary, are in con- 
junction with Deists its principal opponents. 
For though the Catholics are averse to it, they 
content themselves with neutrality % and though 
some of the Episcopalians are of similar senti- 
ments, the great body of them are friendly to it. 
The Friends not only speak against it in private, 
but some of their ministers denounce it in pub- 
lic. On enquiring of several of them the reason 



200 



THE FRIENDS. 



of their hostility, I learnt that it arose princi- 
pally from a notion that the Bible Society is 
founded on priestcraft, and is auxiliary to it. 
In former ages they say, priests opposed the cir- 
culation of the scriptures, from a fear of the peo- 
ple's becoming so enlightened, as to see the road 
to salvation sufficiently plain without paying for 
guidance. Now, since the people have learnt 
to reverence the Bible, priests avail themselves 
of this sentiment, and advocate the Bible Society 
to ingratiate themselves into public estimation ; 
since, whether they desire it or not, the Bible cannot 
be confined to the sanctuary. But the Friends do 
not confine themselves to the appearance of ar- 
gument. They speak of the clergy and of other 
professors with a degree of asperity which their 
English brethren have long since disused, not- 
withstanding the examples for it to be found in 
the writings of some of their early ministers ; 
and which is the more remarkable in the Ame- 
ricans, from the mildness generally adopted by 
the other religious professors in their country 
when speaking or writing of those who differ 
from them. 

An examination of the history and regulations 
of the Bible Society is sufficient to convince an 
unbiassed person that it did not originate in 



THE FRIENDS. 



201 



priestcraft. In what way it is peculiarly calcu- 
lated to support the interests of priests distinct 
from the well-being of the people, I cannot ima- 
gine. At any rate, as the Friends in England 
are as jealous of priestcraft as the Friends in 
America, it might be well for the latter to 
examine anew the grounds of their opposition 
to an institution which the former support. Let 
them also discard unworthy prejudice. Were 
WicklifFe, Luther, Knox, and the whole host 
of reformers from Papal superstitions, actuated 
by priestcraft when they translated and circu- 
lated the Bible? Did Hooper, Latimer and Rid- 
ley suffer martyrdom for the support of priest- 
craft? Why then should it be supposed that the 
priests of our time are influenced solely by secu- 
lar considerations when they promote the Bible 
Society ? And if they are so influenced, is that 
a reason for supposing that no good can result 
from their labours ? The money wrung from the 
grasp of the miser at the approach of death as a 
penance for sins, or that given by the profligate 
in ostentation, is no less serviceable to the re- 
lief of poverty, than that given privately by the 
compassionate and charitable. The man who per- 
forms a good action from a bad motive, may fail 
to obtain the approval of heaven, but the benefit 
to others is the same as if the motive were good. 



202 



THE FRIENDS. 



The Bible Society has had some injudicious ad- 
vocates; fanaticism has had some influence in en- 
larging the sphere of its operations ; and it is in- 
disputable that many of its supporters have been 
enemies to godliness : but as its tendency is to 
weaken the strong holds of bigotry, infidelity and 
superstition, and assist the cause of morality and 
piety, it seems foolish to oppose it from the sup- 
position that priests make it an instrument sub- 
servient to their spiritual predominance and 
worldly interests. As well might we oppose 
Christianity itself, because one of the Apostles 
betrayed his Lord for gain. 

But after all, I believe that a strict scrutiny 
will lead to the conviction, that the opposition 
made by the Friends to the Bible Society, arises 
mainly from the spread of deistical opinions 
amongst them. I do not make this assertion 
hastily, well knowing that it is one which they 
will be reluctant to admit. But facts so fully 
confirm me in my opinion of this matter, that it 
would be wrong to disguise it. Doctrines such 
as Fox never preached, and for which the wri- 
tings of Barclay and Penn may be searched in 
vain, are now openly promulgated amongst them. 
One of their ministers resident at Jericho in Long 
Island, has travelled much in New York, Penn- 



THE FRIENDS. 



203 



sylvania and other States, and by his zeal and 
talents has raised a party whose views are by no 
means coincident with those of the founders of 
the society. He has considerable force of mind 
and oratorical talents, though he is neither a pro- 
found reasoner nor a rhetorician. It is by bold- 
ness in avowing his opinions, and fluency of lan- 
guage in expressing them, that he has succeeded 
in making converts. He is a favourite amongst 
the young, and those of more advanced age 
whose principles are unsettled. Such is his in- 
fluence over his followers, that probably no Pope 
had ever more implicit reliance placed in him. 
To call in question the soundness of his doc- 
trines, or their conformity with those which have 
been always understood as belonging to the so- 
ciety, is a sort of high treason which his follow- 
ers know not how to pardon, for they are not 
conspicuous for their tolerance. He teaches that 
the books of both the Old and New Testament 
are less valuable than the writings of some more 
modern authors ; that the validity of some of 
them is more than dubious ; that collectively 
they have done more injury than good ; that the 
doctrine of the Atonement is false ; and that 
neither the primitive Christians including the 
Apostles, nor the reformers from Popery, nor 
the early Quakers, possessed that clear discern- 



THE FRIENDS. 



ment of spiritual things which some persons now 
enjoy. Consequently, so far from paying defer- 
ence to Barclay's Apology, to the Epistles issued 
yearly by the Friends in England, or to any of 
those works which are considered authorities for 
the right understanding of their principles, he 
treats them all as of suspicious or dubious import. 
Now it is remarkable that one who deviates so 
widely from the generality of his brethren should 
be suffered by them to preach in their meetings. 
Their Church government must be very lax, or 
the fear of a schism must operate to prevent its 
enforcement. Certainly the Friends in England 
would not consent to tolerate such departure 
from their ancient principles in any one of their 
ministers. If they did not expel him from their 
communion, they would at least silence him as 
a preacher. 

It need excite no surprise that this person 
should oppose the Bible Society, for he told me 
in a conversation I had with him at his own 
house, that he believed that half the Bible was 
the composition of uninspired men, and that a 
large portion of it he did not believe at all. Nor 
need it excite surprise that his disciples should 
coincide with him in opinion, as in most cases 
where a party is formed, the leader of it is unhe- 



THE FRIENDS. 



205 



sitatingly relied on. But it appears extraordi- 
nary that those members of the society who so 
far from uniting with him, use their endeavours 
to counteract the spread of his principles, should 
agree with him in denouncing the Bible Society, 
They do not indeed use the harsh language to- 
wards it which he and his followers adopt, but 
they manifest no friendly feeling towards it, 
and condemn all active co-operation with it. 
Amongst the whole body of the Friends in Ame- 
rica, few, very few, uphold the Bible Society 
either actively or passively. Some I believe 
would render their assistance to promote its ob- 
ject, were it not that the desire of preserving 
harmony with their brethren prompts them to 
neutrality. The wish to maintain love is an 
amiable feeling, but it may possibly lead to error 
when it urges to a compromise of principle, as 
by a mixture of liquids their respective proper- 
ties are sometimes changed. I believe that the 
indecision of some of the Friends has had a si- 
milar effect. 

The Friends in Massachusetts have been near- 
ly split into two bodies by a controversy on the 
power of the Scriptures in effecting salvation ; 
some maintaining and others disputing their ef- 
ficacy. 1 do not know that this controversy 



206 



THE FRIENDS. 



has arisen in consequence of any active pole- 
mic having exerted himself to disturb the tran- 
quillity of the society. But whatever be its 
cause, the symptoms of disunion are as obvious 
in that State as in the middle States. The 
Friends are generally so mild and moderate in 
their proceedings, that the parties may perhaps 
be reconciled ; but if any sudden excitement 
should arise, a disruption of the society seems to 
me to be the almost inevitable result. The ma- 
terials are so combustible, that a spark may oc- 
casion an explosion. Should such an event take 
place, the party which adheres to the doctrines 
of Fox and Barclay, and which embraces nearly 
all of the acknowledged ministers of the society, 
would probably make a closer approximation to 
the primitive standard, than is the case at pre- 
sent in either England or America. The other 
party would be likely to slide into practices, so 
much at variance with what has ever been 
looked on as Quakerism, that the public would 
bestow upon it some new name. 

From the best accounts I obtained of the state 
of their schools and private tuition, as well as 
from intercourse with them, I apprehend that the 
Friends have less learning diffused amongst them 
than their English brethren. Some of them are, 



THE FRIENDS. 



207 



it is true, exceedingly well informed, and are re- 
spected for their literary and scientific attain- 
ments by their fellow citizens at large, as well as 
by those of their own society ; yet in general I 
think they are below their English brethren. It 
is not very creditable to the Friends, that Penn, 
who may be regarded as the most distinguished 
man ever enrolled in their list of worthies, should 
remain at the period of a century from his de- 
cease, without a biographer worthy of his cha- 
racter and distinction. His name is inseparably 
connected with America as one of her wisest le- 
gislators ; he stands recorded in the History of 
England as enjoying the friendship and confi- 
dence of one of her monarchs, and as the sup- 
porter of popular rights against arbitrary power; 
and yet in neither country has one of his own 
profession given the world a religious and philo- 
sophical account of his actions. The philan- 
thropic Clarkson who is not a Quaker published 
a life of him some years ago ; but it is a tedious 
book and full of puerilities. 

The Friends it is well known discard the plu- 
ral pronoun when addressing an individual, al- 
ways substituting the singular. When asked 
their reason for this, they allege that the former 
is a violation of grammatical rule, and that as it 



208 



THE FRIENDS. 



originated in courtly flattery it is at variance with 
Christian simplicity. The latter reason I shall 
leave untouched ; but I must express my surprise 
that they should mention the subject of grammar, 
while they so generally disregard it by using the 
pronoun of the second person in the accusative 
instead of the nominative case in violation of all 
rule. This is a common error in England, and 
apparently an error without exception in Ame- 
rica. There seems also to be an inconsistency, 
in their refusing to call the days and the months 
by their common names on the plea of their hea- 
then origin, while they use the names of the pla- 
nets and other words whose etymology is from 
pagan deities, without scruple. If the second 
day of the week ought not to be called Monday, 
because it was so named in honour of the moon, 
or of a goddess personating the moon, can it be 
right to call a deranged person a lunatic, when 
it is known that the derivation is precisely the 
same ? The Friends in America seem to be in- 
creasingly aware, that their principles and prac- 
tice in the use of language are not in unison. 
From the opinions which I heard some of their 
influential members express, I think that some 
general change may probably take place amongst 
them before many years. 



THE FRTENDS. 209 

In several of the States the Friends are ex- 
empted from military duty, in compliance with 
their religious objections to war, they believing 
it to be, whether offensive or defensive, unlaw- 
ful for a Christian. In some of the States they 
are subject to a small fine for refusing to serve. 
When this fine is levied, they refuse payment 
and subject themselves to a distraint. 

The Friends have been long known to be 
averse to the punishment of death for crimes 
short of murder. Some of them carry their opin- 
ions so far as to contend, that no legislature act- 
ing conformably to Christianity, can decree its 
exercise even for that crime. These opinions 
involve them in a difficulty from which those in 
England are exempt. The latter are never re- 
quired to serve on juries, their affirmation not 
being allowed in law to be equivalent to an oath, 
for the due exercise of any office. But in the 
United States, where their affirmation is accept- 
ed on every occasion, they must take their turn 
in serving on juries. To this, they make no ob- 
jection in civil matters, nor in criminal cases pu- 
nishable in any other manner than by death ; but 
when the verdict of the jury may be followed 
by a sentence to the gallows, they conceive that 
by concurring in that verdict, they would become 

p 



210 



THE FRIENDS. 



participators in the guilt of infracting the mild 
spirit of the Christian religion. It is therefore 
. their practice to solicit of the court, exemption 
from the office of jurymen in all such cases. 
Sometimes their request is complied with ; some- 
times they are fined for their refusal to serve. 

In their meetings for worship many of their 
ministers preach in the drawling tone so com- 
mon amongst their English brethren, and which 
is so unpleasant to those unaccustomed to it, that 
strangers sometimes depart abruptly in conse- 
quence. I heard a minister at New York during 
the Yearly Meeting of the society, whose sermon 
from its extraordinary sing-song caused a ge- 
neral stare of surprise. How much better would 
it be to speak in a natural, dignified manner I I 
believe that their ministers are not spoken freely 
to, in reference to their defective or faulty de- 
livery. The words of Cowper deserve their at- 
tention, 



" I seek divine simplicity in him 
Who handles things divine." 



it V n wmq 



CHAPTER XVI. 



THE METHODISTS. 

Under the denomination of Methodists, I place 
those only who are the disciples of Wesley ; a 
distinction necessary to be mentioned, because 
the term is frequently applied reproachfully to 
those of other sects who are unusually devout. 
They are, in comparison with the Presbyterians 
and Episcopalians, not a large body; but as 
their present rate of increase is I believe great- 
er than that of any other sect, the time may 
come when they will rank first in number, if not 
in importance. Some persons in America wit- 
nessing their zeal in proselyting, and their tena- 
city of their converts, have gone so far as to 
assert, that ultimately there will be only two 
classes in Christendom, Methodists and Unita- 
rians ; or as they are pleased otherwise to ex- 
press it, those who are influenced by fanaticism, 
and those who are guided solely by reason. This 
however, must be admitted to be an extravagant 
supposition. Still, whether we regard the influ- 
ence of the Methodists on the populace, or their 
prodigious increase, they deserve great attention, 

p 2 



*212 • THE METHODISTS. 

Their ministers both local and itinerant, actuated 
with the zeal of Jesuits, though not with their 
temporizing principles, have laboured assiduous- 
ly in all places where vice and wretchedness are 
congregated. Wherever a society has been set- 
tled in such places, a visible reformation has 
been the consequence. The grosser vices have 
subsided ; and a decent demeanour, combined 
with I trust true piety, has taken their place. I 
confess I am no admirer of their pulpit denuncia- 
tions of fire and brimstone in the gulf of Hell, 
with malignant devils for tormentors ; yet while 
I see good attend their labours, I infer that the 
ignorant are more easily roused by such terrible 
language, than allured by what is attractive in 
the love, mercy and goodness of the great Re- 
deemer. I was at one of their meetings at a so- 
litary house in the woods of Virginia ; the only 
place of worship it appeared within a compass of 
fourteen or fifteen miles. The preacher was a 
young man of that repulsive look characteristic of 
their ministers. His text was from the Revela- 
tions ; a book, which from its obscurity, seems to 
be a great favourite with the whole tribe of mys- 
tics from Behmen to Swedenborg and Joanna 
Southcote, and with most of those who believe 
that a spiritual signification is couched under the 
literal sense of every passage. His exposition, 



THE METHODISTS. Ulo 

though not what I should consider strained, was 
not quite so clear or so full as might have been 
expected. The violence of his language was 
harsh to my ears ; but as a number of negro slaves 
was present, the discourse might be better adapt- 
ed for the auditory than one more refined. On 
reflecting on it afterwards, I was led to the con- 
clusion, that some present might have been 
aroused from careless security, and others ani- 
mated to a perseverance in the path of devoted- 
ness to religion. 

The Methodists are almost the only persons 
who have paid attention to the religious and mo- 
ral instruction of the slaves. The Catholics, to 
be sure, who are slave-owners, have converted 
the negroes on their estates to their ceremonious 
worship ; but their labours in very few instances 
have, I believe, extended beyond their own es- 
tates. The mass of the free coloured popula- 
tion, as well as of the slaves who profess religion, 
are Methodists ; though congregations exist of 
several other denominations. 

The annual celebration of camp-meetings is 
kept up amongst the Methodists in various parts 
of the United States, though the practice is dis- 
countenanced by their brethren in England, I 



214 



THE METHODISTS. 



had a great desire to witness one of them, but 
had no opportunity. I heard various reports of 
their immoral effects on the youth of both sexes. 
Probably these reports have little foundation in 
truth, as the Methodists are generally consider- 
ed to be a moral people. The success of their 
labours to prevent drunkenness is said to be great. 

If it be enquired why they have been so much 
more successful in proselyting the poor and ig- • 
norant, than other sects who have used endea- 
vours for the same purpose, the reason may be 
found in their singular policy and the plainness 
of their preaching. If a poor man be admitted 
a member of a Methodist society, he soon finds 
himself of some importance ; he may speedily 
become, or have the prospect of becoming, a 
class-leader ; and if he have a ready utterance, 
he may be permitted to practise as an exhorter, 
and perhaps be elevated into a local preacher. 
That person must be ignorant indeed of human 
nature, who perceives not that these distinctions 
are more alluring than the perpetual obscurity 
attendant on a union with most other societies. 
The plain, natural style adopted by the Me- 
thodist ministers in their sermons, is so much 
better adapted to the understandings of the illi- 
terate, than the polished diction and balanced 



THE METHODISTS. 



215 



periods of which the Clergy in general are so 
fond, that we need not wonder at the preference 
given to them. Let any one read one of the 
neat and critically exact Sermons of Blair, or of 
the unimpassioned, argumentative Sermons of 
Tillotson, or of the redundant though rich and 
illustrative Sermons of Chalmers, and then read 
one of Wesley's, where without the charms of 
rhetoric, conviction is carried to the heart ; — 
and then say which of the four would be the best 
comprehended by a peasant or mechanic. The 
extemporaneous delivery of sermons, so general 
if not universal amongst the Methodists, has its 
use in preserving simplicity, and giving scope to 
the preacher to work upon the passions. The 
reading of written sermons will seldom do more 
than fill the mind with indistinctness, except the 
hearers are sufficiently educated to understand 
logic ; unless indeed the sermons be so plain and 
practical that they cannot be misunderstood. In 
that case, the understanding may be convinced, 
and yet, because no warmth is infused into the 
heart, the impression may be as transient as the 
shade on a green field occasioned by a passing 
cloud. The idea of the Clergy who are pur- 
posely educated for the ministry, that they can- 
not preach extemporaneously without confusing 
themselves and falling into nonsense, is one of 



216 



THE METHODISTS. 



those which is proved to be nugatory by the ex- 
ample of the illiterate Methodists. The sermon 
I heard in Virginia was as well arranged as one 
of South's or Clarke's, and yet the preacher had 
no notes, and did not know that he was to preach 
till about five minutes before he entered the pul- 
pit. I heard another delivered at the State Pri- 
son in New York, which was both regular and 
impassioned. This was also extemporaneously 
delivered by a Methodist. Why the feelings 
should not be operated on as well as the under- 
standing, I cannot conceive. The orator of a 
popular assembly is often glad to rouse the pas- 
sions : why then should the preacher be indif- 
ferent to the power of pathetic or animating ap- 
peals ? 



7 *>•*;*>■ 



CHAPTER XVII. 



THE SHAKERS. 



Amongst the various sects in the United States, 
one of the most curious is that of the Shakers. 
As these people have been grossly misrepresent- 
ed in some recent publications, and as but little 
is known of them in England, a somewhat mi- 
nute account of them seems necessary. The per- 
son who must be considered as their founder was 
Ann Lee of Manchester, a blacksmith's daugh- 
ter ; for though some of the doctrines of the fu- 
ture society were publicly taught by two young 
men before Ann had adopted them, yet she 
must have the credit, if any there be, of mould- 
ing the elementary parts into a system. On the 
ground of alleged, and perhaps real intolerance 
towards her and her disciples, they quitted Eng- 
land for the United States. During a storm on 
their passage, which was so tremendous as to 
place their lives in the utmost jeopardy, it is said 
that Ann was the stay of both passengers and 
crew. The passengers doubtless paid more de- 
ference to her, than the centurion under similar 
circumstances to the Apostle Paul, for her ob- 



218 



THE SHAKERS, 



scure expressions were treasured up as oracles, 
and she was as devoutly appealed to as the 
priestess at Delphi. High pretensions to special 
Divine illumination, when accompanied by the 
appearance of sanctity and mortification, have 
often produced amongst the ignorant this blind 
confidence. It was by such means that Maho- 
met secured such devotedness in his followers, 
and that Peter the Hermit produced the Cru- 
sades. If we consider that human nature is in 
all ages and countries the same, always prone to 
rely on supposed infallibility, we shall not won- 
der at the authority obtained by Ann Lee. The 
disciples gave her the appellation of Mother, 
but she used to say of herself, "I am Ann the 
Word I" However foolish or blasphemous this 
language may appear, it is consonant to their be- 
lief that Jesus Christ made his second appear- 
ance in her ! And they remind those, who 
shocked at such presumption manifest abhor- 
rence of it, that his first appearance as the re- 
puted son of a carpenter, was no less abhorrent 
to the preconceived ideas of the Jews. 

Soon after the disembarkation of Ann and her 
disciples, they settled near Albany in New York. 
For several years, little or nothing was done to- 
wards the settlement of a new society ; the rea- 



THE SHAKERS. 



219 



son for which I apprehend to be, that they had 
not a sufficiency of property to enable them to 
relax from business to travel in pursuit of con- 
verts. After a time however, they began in 
good earnest. Success attended them. As their 
numbers increased, a new polity was developed ; 
and a society was gradually formed, more pecu- 
liar than most that preceded it. They establish- 
ed, a community of property ; they practised ce- 
libacy; they instituted a novel mode of worship, 
and a system of discipline more exact than that 
of the army. Instead however of mixing with 
society at large, they purchased tracts of land, 
built villages in which none who refused to con- 
form were allowed to settle, and by thus keeping 
themselves distinct from others, they could easily 
enforce their strict regulations. By industry 
and economy, they accumulated considerable 
property. New settlements were from time to 
time formed, and their present number is sup- 
posed to be about five thousand. 

The idea of property being held in common 
has often been acted on. To say nothing of the 
early Christians as recorded in the Acts of the 
Apostles, the Jesuits in Paraguay had, as is well 
known, established a community of property in 
the districts which they laid out in that country. 



THE SHAKERS. 



One party of the two into which the Dutch Men- 
nonists were divided, did the same thing, and 
obtained in consequence the title of the perfect 
Mennonists. The Labadists in France profess- 
ed and acted in like manner. It is not generally 
known, but it is nevertheless true, that they ex- 
tended their system amongst the colonists in 
Maryland. In other respects too, they were like 
the Shakers ; but they soon ceased as a separate 
community. The Duhobortsi in Russia, and 
the Harmonists in Illinois have adopted the sys- 
tem ; and at the school at Hofwyl, and in the 
cotton factory at New Lanark an approximation 
to it exists. From these various trials of the 
system of a common property, we may infer that 
under judicious regulations, it is by no means 
unfavourable to industry. How extensive it is 
possible to make the system, it is not now my 
business to enquire. That it will never become 
general, will be admitted by most, notwithstand- 
ing the arguments in Godwin's Political Jus- 
tice, or the benevolent enthusiasm of Robert- 
Owen. It must, I conceive, soon be brought to 
an end, in all cases where marriage is allowed ; 
but as the Shakers practise celibacy, it may 
continue amongst them for ages to come, if no 
internal dissensions cause a dissolution of the 
society. 



THE SHAKERS. 



221 



The men and women, like monks and nuns, 
live separate from each other ; that is, they have 
separate ranges of apartments ; but they dine 
together, though at different tables. They have 
social meetings after the day's labour is conclu- 
ded ; and speak familiarly to each other, when 
they chance to meet during the day. It of 
course becomes an interesting object of enquiry, 
whether irregularities like those which have been 
supposed prevalent in convents, exist amongst 
the Shakers. Strong suspicions have been en- 
tertained by many persons on this matter, nor 
was my own mind entirely free from them when 
I first visited one of their villages. I questioned 
the deacon and several others on this point. 
They admitted that one or two instances had oc- 
curred amongst them, but assured me that the 
offenders had been expelled the settlement. But 
I did not satisfy myself with their own account : 
I enquired of persons resident in their vicinity. 
One informed me, that he had noticed the men 
and women when riding together, exchange looks 
of more than Platonic meaning ; but on this per- 
son's evidence I could not place much reliance, 
as lie was a sort of rattle-brained madcap. All 
their other neighbours of whom I requested in- 
formation concerning them, and I spoke to both 
poor and rich, concurred in believing them to 



THE SHAKERS. 



be a strictly chaste people. If many improprie- 
ties had taken place amongst them, they would 
in all probability have come to the knowledge of 
their neighbours by some means or other. My 
opinion therefore decidedly is, that they are, as 
they profess to be, of regular conduct. Of their 
benevolence and disposition to be serviceable to 
others in case of need, I had many assurances. 
Their honesty is considered so great, that a 
tradesman told me, that he would at any time, 
as readily take the word of one of them as his 
bond. 

I attended one of their meetings for worship, 
but unluckily was too late to witness the dan- 
cing. It is spoken of as being so far from ludi- 
crous, as to deserve the character of solemnity. 
When I entered the room where they were as- 
sembled there was perfect silence. The men 
habited in a uniform like the dress of the Qua- 
kers, sat on benches on one side of the room ; 
the women, also in a plain uniform, on the other. 
Their behaviour, though decorous, was formal 
and stiff. No lounging, no stretching of the 
legs, was to be seen. All sat upright with their 
hands before them. In a short time, a young 
man advanced to the vacant space at the upper 
end of the room, and in a plain, though rather 



THE SHAKERS. 



223 



drawling manner, addressed the assembly. He 
expatiated on the necessity of self-denial, com- 
mented on the deficiency of most professing 
Christians in this respect, and urged that greater 
purity was essential than was generally supposed. 
Not only was excess to be avoided, but restraints 
were to be imposed on the thoughts. After a 
pause a hymn was sung ; not however in the cus- 
tomary mode, there being, if I remember rightly, 
no repetition, and but little vocal inflection. The 
tune, if such it may be called, seemed to be all 
in one key. I have rarely witnessed more dis- 
sonance in union. After the hymn, an elderly 
man, who was I believe a deacon, rose and spoke 
to this purport. " I can truly say that I feel 
thankful for the opportunity we have just had in 
worshipping Almighty God. It is indeed my 
brethren and sisters a great favour, that we are 
able at the present day to worship him in the way 
we believe to be most acceptable to him, with- 
out hinderance or molestation ; so different to 
former ages. May the favours we enjoy, incite 
us to more watchfulness, to more humility, to 
more purity ; then our reward will be peace : 
and it is for the enjoyment of this blessed peace 
that we* renounce the world, since its acquisi- 
tion is of more value than all the treasures of the 
world." 



THE SHAKERS. 



The Shaker villages are particularly neat. The 
houses are all nicely painted. The yards are 
kept very clean. Even the workshops from the 
absence of dirt and litters, are as comfortable as 
common sitting rooms. Some of their rules 
deserve observance by their neighbours, particu- 
larly those against spitting on the floor, and shut- 
ting doors violently. The household work is 
performed by the women ; the field and me- 
chanical labour by the men. So noted are they 
for the excellence of their workmanship in what- 
ever they undertake, that the farmers around 
are glad to trade with them for such implements 
as they manufacture. 

I visited these people at one of their settle- 
ments in Connecticut, and at another in Massa- 
chusetts ; and at both places was hospitably en- 
tertained. I was not allowed to take my meals 
at the common table, the reason for which I did 
not enquire, not liking to be troublesome with 
trivial questions. However I was permitted to 
enter the room where they were eating, The 
supply on table was plentiful and varied. No- 
thing stronger than cyder was used for drink. 
Wine and spirits are sometimes used medicinally, 
but never as a common beverage. When all 
had finished, they rose from the table simulta- 



THE SHAKERS. L 2 l >i> 

heously, arranged themselves in rows opposite 
each other in the order of their sitting, and then 
falling on their knees, continued in the attitude 
of prayer for about two minutes. Their prayers 
are I believe always mental : vocal prayer at 
least is rare. My dinner was given to me in 
another room. One of the sisters, a pleasing, dif- 
fident girl about seventeen years of age, waited 
on me. I conversed with her on different to- 
pics ; but when I smilingly adverted to their 
opinions on the necessity of celibacy, she seem- 
ed to manifest that I was taking a license scarce- 
ly warrantable. I of course turned to something 
else, and found her quite willing to answer my 
enquiries. She told me that she had been rear- 
ed in the settlement, her parents entering when 
she was quite young, and that she was too happy 
to desire to exchange her course of life for an- 
other. 

The Shakers have very little learning amongst 
them, though one man of some considerable 
scholastic attainments has enrolled himself in 
their society. On enquiring for books, they 
brought me the Bible, and two volumes expla- 
natory of their principles ; being I guessed all 
the books they had ; though I make no doubt 
that at their principal establishment, which is at 

Q 



THE SHAKERS. 



Lebanon in New York, I could have obtained a 
variety. I carefully inspected the two volumes. 
Amidst a mass of not very intelligible matter, 
where shreds of scripture were patched with 
quotations from theological writers, and where 
obscurity and light seemed blended together like 
the smoke and flame of a building on fire, I ma- 
naged to extract their main principles. The fol- 
lowing summary may amuse. 

Adam was created perfect and destined for 
immortality. By transgression he fell, and with 
all his offspring became subject to death. Jesus 
Christ was sent to restore man to his original 
state of perfection. His followers were to be 
distinguished from the rest of mankind by a mark 
so plain as to be obvious to every one. That 
mark is a total abstinence from sexual inter- 
course ; consequently, marriage is unlawful to 
them. Those who conform to his precepts and 
imitate him in living a single life, become per- 
fect. When his precepts are obeyed, oaths and 
war cease ; superfluity in food and apparel are 
not coveted ; compulsory measures in religion 
cannot be enforced ; anger can never have place ; 
and no vain compliments can be used. Luther, 
Calvin and the other reformers were men who 
obscured the light then dawning. Fox and the 



THE SHAKERS. 



other early Quakers were men who bore a faith- 
ful testimony to the light manifested, and pre- 
dicted a further effulgence. This complete il- 
lumination began with Ann Lee. All men have 
not an equal portion of it ; but all who act in 
conformity to what they have, will be saved. 

These appear to be the principles of Shakerism. 
When I asked a Deacon to give me a statement 
of them, he replied that he was willing to give it, 
but that he must premise, that if after learning 
them, I did not embrace them, I should never 
be easy in mind. It is I suppose by the excite- 
ment of fears on this plan, that the Shakers and 
similar professors obtain an ascendency over the 
ignorant. But I believe that their numbers are 
principally kept up and increased by the poor 
and distressed. If a man or woman be brought 
into difficulties, and knows not how to obtain a 
livelihood, a union with the Shakers offers a com- 
fortable asylum. Their rules must to be sure 
be complied with ; but then the labour required 
is not more than it is easy to perform, and all 
fear of a want of subsistence is removed, besides 
having the comfort of decent, warm clothing, 
and a house to live in, not only weather-proof 
but neatly furnished. When married couples 
join the society, they must separate, and live as 

q 2 



THE ' SHAKERS. 



though they had never known each other in any 
character but that of friends. There have been 
instances of husband and wife with a large fa- 
mily of children joining the society. 

I had no reason from any thing I saw or heard 
to infer that they are not a brotherly or content- 
ed people. But I saw abundant reasons for be- 
lieving that they are strangers to the warmest 
sympathetic feelings. Their whole system is of 
a tendency to break the bonds of natural affec- 
tion. A young man whose parents had intro- 
duced him into the society during his childhood, 
they at the same time entering, told me that he 
regarded them exactly as he did other members 
of the society. How should it be otherwise when 
the parents observe the progress of their children 
in life, without hoping for their advancement, 
and the children feel no particular gratitude to 
the parents ? The idea of affection existing in- 
dependent of external circumstances has been 
long renounced by philosophers ; for certain it 
is, that if an infant soon after its birth were 
changed for another infant, without the mother's 
suspecting the circumstance, she would feel pre- 
cisely the same interest and affection for the spu- 
rious infant as for her own. In the Shaker vil- 
lages, all peculiar bias is as far as possible re- 



THE SHAKERS. 



229 



moved. The means used are adequate to the ef- 
fects ; and the interest felt by the members is 

general, and of course rather cold. 
» 

I have mentioned that war is one of those 
things which they believe to be incompatible 
with the Christian religion. In Massachusetts, 
the law requiring the performance of military du- 
ties is relaxed in their favour. In New York, 
they are subject to a fine for refusal to serve. 
For many years they were in the practice of pay- 
ing this fine; but lately, they have submitted 
to imprisonment, rather than by paying it com- 
promise their principles. This is as it should be; 
and if the Moravians were equally consistent, 
we might hope that their example joined to that 
of the Friends, would have a salutary influence 
on the Christian world. War, like duelling, is 
unfit for civilized people, and will doubtless, 
agreeably to the sure word of prophecy, sooner 
or later cease to afflict mankind. Civilization 
can never be complete so long as the sword is 
drawn to settle differences. The number of so- 
cieties for the preservation of peace on Christian 
principles in America, the firmness I have just 
instanced in the Shakers, and some other signs 
of the times, all lead to the belief that improve- 
ment in the condition of man is preparing the 



230 



THE SHAKERS. 



way for more harmony between nations than has 
hitherto been the case. Another dreadful war 
may desolate Europe in the settlement of the 
rights of the people on a secure basis; after that 
we may hope that a new system will produce new 
results. 

The Shakers object to a greater degree of 
learning than is necessary for the common pur- 
poses of life. So far from desiring it as an or- 
nament, they take a very confined view of its 
utility. They have no idea of the happiness it 
confers on its possesser ; or if they have, they 
regard the sort of happiness it produces, as unde- 
sirable as that arising from the love of women. 
Man according to them has but two legitimate 
objects of pursuit ; one, the attainment of a 
simply comfortable existence ; the other, the se- 
curity of the favour of heaven. "Whatever plea- 
sures therefore spring from a cultivation of the 
understanding, or a yielding to the passion of 
love, are, however pure or refined they may be, 
to be shut out. With these ascetic notions, it 
will be readily imagined that their life is mono- 
tonous and placid. The spirits of men under 
their discipline, experience none of that ebulli- 
tion which is sometimes felt by men of the world, 
when under powerful excitement. Nothing can 



THE SHAKERS. 



231 



be more opposite to their ideas than the fictitious 
joys of Odin's hall. Those persons who make 
happiness consist in quiescence may find it in 
perfection in Shakerism. 

A question naturally arises, whether their 
system will be of long continuance. I know of 
no particular cause why it should not, except 
that the accumulation of wealth may produce a 
change in their character and habits. When the 
Benedictines established themselves at Monte 
Cassino, they were poor, and at least negatively 
virtuous. They afterwards became rich and de- 
praved. Can we suppose that wealth will be less 
influential on the Shakers than the Benedictines? 
And that the Shakers will become rich, I see no 
reason to doubt. A society where no idlers are 
allowed, and where none able to work, either 
male or female, are excused from contributing 
to the common welfare, must in the common 
course of things acquire large property. When 
property more than sufficient for its object is 
possessed by those who have no intellectual pur- 
suit, the danger of its abuse is increased. St. 
Jerome, it is said, subdued his passions by learn- 
ing Hebrew. The secret no doubt was, that his 
mind was employed on an object sufficiently 
strong to engross his undivided attention. But 



232 



THE SHAKERS. 



if the Shakers refuse to allow themselves to de- 
vote their time to study, the effect of wealth will 
probably be to introduce excess in the pleasures 
of the table. Luxury and laziness are generally 
concomitant, and when once yielded to, produce 
other evils. If the principles of Shakerism be 
able to preserve all its professors from contagion, 
under circumstances like these, a novelty will 
be exhibited in the moral history of man. 

Archbishop Leighton expressed his regret that 
at the period of the Reformation all monastic 
establishments were destroyed ; and a writer in 
a late number of the Quarterly Review advo- 
cated the propriety of establishing a Protestant 
nunnery. In the example of the Shakers we 
have a specimen of the kind. But notwithstand- 
ing the comparative mildness of the regulations, 
and the strictness of morality which I believe to 
prevail amongst them, I do not think they ex- 
hibit such a view of human happiness as to ren- 
der it desirable to have their example followed. 
Even if learning were introduced and encou- 
raged, the most formidable objection would re^ 
main ; namely, that the monastic life is contra- 
dictory to the dictates of nature. Christianity 
doubtless requires, that nature shall be brought 
under regulations productive of individual and 



THE SHAKERS. 



233 



general good ; but it does not require that na- 
ture shall be so thwarted as to deprive us of en- 
joyments compatible with our duties to God and 
the harmony of creation. The married state, 
when entered upon with prudence and affection, 
is found to improve the disposition and enlarge the 
heart. It adds more than any thing else to the 
sum of human happiness. The formation of a 
state of society where it is prohibited, is as un- 
natural as a government, where there is no will 
but the will of a despot. 

The mention of government reminds me that 
that of the Shakers is professedly a theocracy. 
Whatever alteration is proposed, either in the 
laws or the executive officers, is discussed by 
the body at large.' But no division on a question 
ever takes place, it being their opinion that the 
spirit of judgment is given to some, and must be 
yielded to by the rest. I suppose that the aged 
and a few leading characters decide the part to 
be taken on all momentous occasions. Unani- 
mity is probably secured by the fear that refrac- 
toriness may be followed by expulsion. If any 
breach of harmony occurs, the knowledge of it 
is confined to the members, all their proceedings 
except worship, being confined exclusively to 
themselves. Their general prosperity and good 



THE SHAKERS. 



order are indicative of a government competent 
to its purpose ; yet Shakerism as a system, ap- 
pears like some complex piece of mechanism, 
beautiful and regular, but liable to be put out of 
order if any of the concealed springs lose their 
elasticity. 



1o soaiq xsiqmoo snic 
CHAPTER XVIII. 



THE INDIANS. 

Having mentioned the state of religion in gene- 
ral, and of that of several independent societies, 
I am led by a natural chain to take some notice 
of the Indians, whose religion seems to demand 
more notice that it has hitherto obtained. When 
Penn first landed in Pennsylvania, he was so 
struck with their Jewish countenances, and with 
the similarity of some of their customs to those 
of that people, that he conjectured they might 
be the descendants of the lost ten tribes. He 
supposed, what has since been proved true, that 
Asia and North America were so nearly contigu- 
ous, that they might have migrated from one con- 
tinent to the other. Whether the Indians Penn 
saw, were of different aspect to the other tribes 
cannot now be known, but none of the present 
race, so far as my observation goes, and judg- 
ment may be formed from portraits, are like the 
Jews. I certainly saw a youth among the Se- 
neca Indians, whom if I had met in Hounds- 
ditch, or in any other street in London where 
they haunt, I should have taken for one of them 5 



^36 



THE INDIANS. 



but this was a solitary instance. The customs 
alluded to by Penn are in degree correspondent 
to some of the Jewish, but not more so than 
some prevalent amongst the Negroes in one 
district in Africa, nor than others amongst 
the Asiatics. There is however one remarkable 
particular in which they agree with the Jews, 
and which deserves the more notice from its be- 
ing one that no other barbarous people share with 
them. Their religion is pure theism undefiled 
by idolatry or symbolical representations of the 
Deity. But if they were the descendants of the 
Jews, is it probable that their worship would be 
without ceremonies? Doctrines may be forgot- 
ten or changed, but ceremonies are generally 
continued, even after their origin is forgotten, 
and when they are totally useless. Now the In- 
dians have so few ceremonies that it strongly 
militates against Penn's idea. But how aston- 
ishing is it, that they alone of all savage nations 
should believe in the unity of God, and worship 
him without the aid of visible objects! With the 
exception of a tribe or two in Virginia now ex- 
tinct, who had framed an image to which they 
paid their adorations, there is not I believe an 
instance to the contrary on record within the 
territory of the United States. One of the early 
colonists in New Jersey, who has left some ac 



THE INDIANS. 



237 



count of the Indians in that State, mentions that 
their worship consisted in the abstraction of the 
mind from external objects, under the belief that 
the Great Spirit would hold communion with the 
soul when humbly prostrated before him. This 
worship is still practised by them, at least by 
such amongst them as are religious. They are 
all believers in a future state of rewards and pu- 
nishments, which they generally suppose will be 
of a kind like those desired or dreaded on earth, 
such as the abundance or privation of corporeal 
comforts. The great purity of their worship 
may be a cause why missionaries have been able 
to effect so little change amongst them. It may 
be possible, and in some cases comparatively 
easy to convince a man of the absurdity and 
wickedness of idolatry ; and when that convic- 
tion is established, to persuade him of the Divine 
origin of Christianity. But those who labour to 
convert the Indians have no such ground to 
work on. Though the foundation for Chris- 
tianity is laid, the superstructure cannot easily be 
raised. If it could have been raised by any peo- 
ple, we might suppose that the Friends, whose 
principles tally so much with theirs as far as 
they go, would have done it. But they have 
effected as little as others. Indeed it would be 
a very difficult thing to persuade them to em- 



238 THE INDIANS. 

brace a religion which forbids war, and retalia- 
tion for injuries. 

The origin of the Indians, like that of most 
other nations, is involved in obscurity. Many 
hypotheses have been formed, but all insuffi- 
ciently supported by facts to carry full conviction. 
That of their being the descendants of the ten 
tribes of Israel has been a favourite one with 
others besides Penn. A volume entitled the Star 
in the West, was published by an American a few 
years ago, for the express purpose of proving its 
probability. But the author was so incompetent 
to his task, that his book has the appearance of 
being the production of a schoolboy. The in- 
stances he has given of a few Hebrew words 
amount to little, since it is well known that they 
speak nearly as many languages as there are 
tribes. Many of these may be reasonably sup- 
posed to be cognate. But I was assured by In- 
dians of several tribes that they had listened to 
the conversation of other Indians without being 
able to understand a single word. There must 
therefore be a radical difference. The language 
of one tribe has, as I was assured by a literary 
gentleman, many Welsh words in it 5 a circum- 
stance which may be credited without attaching 
any faith in the idea of Madoc's settlement in 



THE INDIANS. 



239 



America, since dialects of the Celtic partially 
intelligible to a Welshman prevail in the north of 
Africa; and there is an instance on record of a 
Negro slave who could make himself understood 
by the Indians in his native tongue. As how- 
ever the Celtic is traced to an Asiatic stock, and 
as various peculiarities of the Indians indicate 
an acquaintance at some former period with the 
orientals, little doubt need be entertained that 
Asia was the parent of America. If any excep- 
tion be made, it must be respecting the Esqui- 
maux who are supposed to be of European ori- 
gin. Yet some antiquarians in the United States, 
have endeavoured to show the reasonableness of 
a supposition, that America was the part of the 
world first peopled. Recent researches in Ohio 
and in the district west of the Mississippi, have 
brought to light some particulars which lead to 
the belief, that a race of people acquainted with 
more arts than the Indians, inhabited the conti- 
nent anterior to them. But that this people was 
the parent stock of the human race, cannot easily 
be proved, or elucidated so as to make it appear 
so probable, as that Asia was the chosen seat for 
them. 

The Indians have made but slender progress 
in civilization. Though it is upwards of two cen- 



240 



THE INDIANS. 



turies since the first settlement was made ill 
North America by the English, the Indians are 
nearly as rude as if they had never had an exam- 
ple of the inestimable benefits of agriculture and 
the mechanical arts. The cause of this lies deeper 
than many speculative philosophers have imagin- 
ed. Since Locke overturned the unstable doc- 
trine of innate ideas, an opinion has been preva- 
lent, that all the inequalities observable amongst 
men, may be traced to the difference in their ca- 
pacities and education. Dr. Johnson, by his de- 
finition of genius in his Life of Gowley, has con- 
tributed to this opinion. He says; " the true 
genius is the mind of large general powers, ac- 
cidentally determined to some particular direc- 
tion and he rejects the notion not only of in- 
nate ideas but of innate propensities. He is re- 
ported to have said, that Newton might have 
been an epic poet, or Milton a natural philoso- 
pher, and each as eminent as the other now is. 
Dr. Watts seems to have gone nearly as far. But 
it may be observed, that as in the breed of horses 
some are formed for swiftness and others for 
draught, so in the races of men, some are dis- 
tinguished for lively imaginations, and others for 
the exercise of the reasoning faculties; and 
though I will not go so far as to assert, that men 
have innate propensities, I maintain that they 



THE INDIANS. 



241 



have naturally a greater aptitude for some pur- 
suits than others. And as there are individual 
characteristics, so there are national. The Ger- 
mans are said to be inventive, the Russians imi- 
tative ; the Celts resisted civilization longer than 
the Goths ; and the Indians have a great aver- 
sion to labour. Fatigue and privation of food 
when engaged in war or hunting they can bear ; 
but the fatigue of settled labour is intolerable to 
them. Nearly all those who have been removed 
when children from their tribe, and instructed in 
the arts of civilization, and enlarged in mind by 
a knowledge of sciences, have in after life re- 
turned to the rude state of their nation. A few 
Indians on Long Island had every advantage for 
improvement placed within their reach ; the ex- 
periment of inuring them to labour by early in- 
dustry was fully tried, but Leviathan was not so 
tamed. And as a proof how constitutionally they 
were affected, the children of some of them who 
married negroes, were brought within the pale 
of civilization with comparative ease. I saw se- 
veral of these at a farm-house, who were in the 
employ of the farmer. They behaved well ; and 
their master told me that he found them docile 
and tolerably industrious. But if further proof 
be wanted of the influence of nature on the cha- 
racter, habits and pursuits of mankind, it may be 

R 



M2 



THE INDIANS. 



found in the English gypsies. These people* 
have been roaming over the country for centu- 
ries, and though doubtless of more mixed blood 
now than formerly, are still impatient of the re- 
straints of civilization. Some of them will in- 
deed confine to the towns in winter, and obtain 
subsistence by acting as tinkers or chimney- 
sweeps ; but as soon as spring returns, away they 
fly into the country to resume their favourite 
occupations of pilfering and fortune-telling. A 
gentleman in Rutlandshire told me, that he had 
one in his family for some years as a domestic 
servant, who by being a little humoured, was a 
useful, handy fellow. This is the only case of 
the kind I ever heard of; but even this was not 
attended with the success of reclaiming him from 
his early habits ; for on some of his tribe being 
in the vicinity, he left the comfortable home of 
his master where he had an easy life and plenty 
to eat, to join them in their mode of sleeping in 
tents and obtaining a precarious subsistence. 
These circumstances lead to the belief that the 
Indians will never become a civilized people. A 
few individuals perhaps may adopt some of the 
improvements of civilized life. But unless in- 
termarriages with either the whites or blacks 
take place, I fear no other prospect remains than 
that of their gradual extinction. 



THE INDIANS. 



243 



There can be no doubt that the Indians are far 
less numerous now than formerly. The policy 
and plans of the American government contri- 
bute to their diminution. The territory occu- 
pied by a tribe is the general property, and as 
the whites form settlements around it, is increas- 
ed in value as an article for sale. To a people 
to whom spirituous liquors are so alluring as they 
are to the Indians, the offer of a large sum of 
money is very tempting. The government agents 
accordingly, generally succeed in persuading 
them to accept a price for any land which it ap- 
pears desirable to purchase. When the Indians 
have disposed of their land, no alternative re- 
mains for them but to strike into the territories 
of other tribes. In endeavouring to obtain a 
settlement, a war is the almost necessary conse- 
quence. Either one or the other tribe is so much 
reduced before terms are settled, that if a fresh 
war chances to break out soon after, an extermi- 
nation almost "total results. The number of ex- 
tinct tribes is very great. However, it cannot 
be said that the American government violates 
any principle of justice in purchasing the Indian 
territories for its own citizens. And much as we 
may regret that the aborigines should relinquish 
the possessions of their fathers to strangers, when 
that relinquishment is so fatal to themselves, yet 
r 2 



244 THE INDIAN'S. 



we ought perhaps rather to rejoice, from the con- 
sideration that civilization with its concomitant 
blessings, supersedes barbarism, ignorance and 
sloth ; and that the population is necessarily in- 
creased a hundred or a thousand-fold. But 
though the Americans are clear of injustice in 
their treaties with the Indians for their land, it 
is doubtful whether it be consistent with sound 
policy to purchase to the extent they have done ; 
for from the low price of land it results, that the 
population is allured from the old settled dis- 
tricts, before they are brought into so great a 
degree of improvement as is desirable. A large 
extent of territory badly cultivated, is less con- 
ducive to comfort than a small one well culti- 
vated. 

The Indians have amongst them much sense 
of honour. A tradesman, whose dealings with 
them are considerable, told me that he could de- 
pend on their word for the payment of money 
at a fixed future day, though till he got their 
promise, he could not be sure of receiving any 
thing. The sheriff of a county in New York told 
me that he released one of them from prison, 
on his promising to deliver himself up on the 
day fixed for his trial, two others at the same 
time pledging themselves for his appearance. I 



THE INDIANS. 



245 



asked the sheriff if he had no fear of losing his 
prisoner. His answer was, that he had none 
whatever. The event showed that his confi- 
dence was not misplaced. 

The best symptoms of Indian civilization are 
to be found amongst the Cherokees inhabiting 
the country through which the Arkansaw flows. 
Several of these have become good farmers, and 
have adopted the dress and habits of the whites. 
A person told me that he stopped at a tavern 
kept by one of them, whose wife sat at the head 
of the table at dinner conducting herself with 
complete propriety. Next to the Cherokees, I 
believe I may rank the Senecas. I visited one 
of their villages near Buffalo where I found some 
houses vastly superior to the wigwams formerly 
their only shelter. On opening the door of one 
of these houses I observed a man with his wife 
and daughter busily engaged in making moca- 
sins. On my telling them that I was a stranger 
from a great distance come to see the Indians, 
the man rose from his chair and offered it to me 
with perfect politeness. The next house I called 
at belonged to one who had been in England. 
The examples of cleanliness he had seen abroad 
had been lost on him, for the room was disgust- 
ingly filthy. On my telling him that I had seen 



246 



THE INDIANS. 



him in London, he came forward and offered 
me his hand which I shook cordially. I then 
requested that he would show me his skill as a 
marksman. He immediately took his rifle and 
walked with me into the forest. Presently see- 
ing a squirrel on the top of a high tree, he aimed 
at its throat and shot it there. He soon began 
to ask me if I knew such and such persons in 
London, telling me not only their names but 
their trades and the streets they lived in, proving 
himself to be possessed of a good memory. But 
I could not find that his journey in Great Bri- 
tain and Ireland, whatever new ideas it might 
have given him, had tended to the increase of 
his comforts by inspiring him with any desire for 
improving his condition. How lamentable is it 
that a race of men, like the Indians, gifted by na- 
ture with good mental powers, should so reso- 
lutely persist in retaining their old habits, and 
thus remaining stationary, while the South sea 
islanders, the African negroes, and the Russian 
boors are all advancing ! 

After I left this man, I overtook another driv- 
ing a cart with a yoke of oxen. He enquired of 
me if I would bargain with him for the beasts. 
This gave me an opportunity of conversing with 
him at great length, for he spoke English fluent- 



THE INDIANS. 



24? 



ly. Though with more compass of intelligence 
and thought than the others, he was still the wild 
son of the forest. One of his remarks struck me 
forcibly. I asked him if the Indians had not a 
dislike to the Negroes. He said, by no means ; 
that they judged of men by their worth, and 
not by their colour. " Besides," added he, " why 
should we dislike them more than the whites ? 
The whites came in first, and then brought in 
the blacks ; and the two together have taken 
away our country, and we are under no obliga- 
tions to either of them." 

Some of these Senecas have embraced Chris- 
tianity; but I did not learn that they are at all 
superior in either morals or habits to the rest. 
An intelligent tradesman resident in their vici- 
nity, insisted that the labours of the missionaries 
had not only been useless but absolutely preju- 
dicial. He said that he was persuaded, that 
many amongst those whom we denominate hea- 
then, were men and women of real piety, ac- 
knowledging the influence of the Great Spirit on 
their hearts, reclaiming them from evil and draw- 
ing them to good. A people of so much doc- 
trinal purity, are certainly less likely to be bene- 
fitted by missionaries, than idolaters and canni- 
bals. One thing is admitted by all travellers to 



248 



THE INDIANS. 



the western regions of North America, namely, 
that in proportion as the Indians know less of 
the whites, the better they are in morals. The 
accounts published by the missionaries of con- 
versions, triumphant deaths and the like, require 
to be cautiously relied on. The Indians, so long 
as they continue Indians, that is, so long as they 
continue to subsist by hunting rather than agri- 
culture, will in all probability never become sin- 
cere, enlightened Christians. They may perhaps 
become professors of Christianity, but their 
profession will not give them the mildness and 
forbearance required by Christianity, unless they 
adopt civilization. The Friends, sensible of 
this, have endeavoured to persuade them to turn 
to agriculture, but after all the labour they have 
bestowed, their success has been so small, that 
I should not be surprised if they were ultimately 
to abandon their object. 



CHAPTER XIX. 



SLAVERY. 

The evils of slavery are felt and acknowledged in 
the slave States, but I fear that habit, early preju- 
dice, and other concurring causes, have produced 
a torpor on the subject amongst the inhabitants 
who are free. It is true that few or none will ad- 
vocate slavery abstractedly, but most are willing 
to defend it under existing circumstances. So 
obvious are the evils of slavery, that in passing 
from Pennsylvania into Maryland, the former a 
free, the latter a slave State, I was struck with 
the difference between them almost at first enter- 
ing. Instead of neat farm-houses with spacious 
substantial out-buildings, and surrounding cot- 
tages with small gardens attached, where the 
poor might be supposed to reside in comfort, a 
different scene presented. The farm-houses large 
but of slovenly appearance ; the barns of rude 
structure ; and the li!egro huts no better than 
pigstyes: these were the objects I was obliged to 
see. As a proof how great is the contrast be- 
tween Pennsylvania and Maryland, I may men- 
tion that as we were in the stage-coach, one of 



250 



SLAVERY. 



the passengers suddenly remarked that we had 
passed the boundary line. I asked him how he 
knew it as he had never been that road before. 
He directed my attention to a barn, and said that 
he knew by that we must have entered Mary- 
land, as Pennsylvania he was sure had nothing 
so shabby. This was his own spontaneous re- 
mark, no part of our previous conversation hav- 
ing been on slavery, or the comparative merits 
of the two States. In Virginia, I found that the 
farm-houses had an aristocratical appearance in 
comparison with the other houses, some of them 
being not only large, but approaching to splen- 
dour. The roads were so bad, as to be in some 
parts nearly impassable for carriages, and where 
crossed by a brook or small creek, without even 
the accommodation of a foot-bridge ; a deficien- 
cy, which to a pedestrian like me, was a most 
troublesome inconvenience. On several occa- 
sions, I was beholden to persons for the use of a 
horse for getting over ; on others, I had to make 
circuitous routes to find a ford, or avail myself 
of the trunk of a tree placed across for the ge- 
neral accommodation. At one place where I 
crossed, the water was about four feet deep, and 
the log so unsteady that I had to crawl on hands 
and knees to avoid the chance of a ducking. If 
these things had occurred on the newly formed 



SLAVERY. 



2,51 



roads in the western wilderness, I should have 
passed them as matters of course. But after the 
good roads and bridges of Pennsylvania, to find 
such things in a part of the country of older 
date in settlement, I was led to the belief that 
the existence of slavery was the main cause of 
the inferiority. 

In New York and Pennsylvania, the work of 
improvement was evidently rapidly proceeding. 
Villages were rising up in various places in which 
I observed many good houses and some elegant 
ones. The churches were numerous, displaying 
considerable beauty of architecture. The whole 
appearance of the new villages was exceedingly 
comfortable ; and every where life, bustle and 
improvement were apparent. But in Virginia 
how dismal was the look of things ! Few, very 
few villages attracted the eye. From Richmond 
to Charlottesville, a distance of eighty miles, there 
was hardly one deserving the name : in other 
parts I remarked the same circumstance. The 
places for worship were small frame houses, built 
in the plainest manner, having poor accommoda- 
tions for the frequenters of them. The log- 
houses of the poor white and free coloured peo- 
ple were little adapted to exclude cold and wet. 
All seemed dormant. Gangs of hegro slaves un- 



SLAVERY. 



der the eye of an overseer were at work in the 
fields ; but there was none of that lively, improv- 
ing aspect so conspicuous in districts where sla- 
very does not prevail. 

From these particulars it will be inferred, and 
with truth, that the injurious effects of slavery 
are not confined to its victims : they extend 
throughout society. The masters are indolent, 
the poor whites are much worse off than the same 
class in the free States, and the free blacks are 
horribly degraded. Leaving the situation of the 
latter for the present, let me glance at that of 
the whites. When a person is accustomed from 
early youth to see every description of work per- 
formed by slaves, and by slaves of a different 
colour from himself, he imbibes an opinion which 
is not to be wondered at, that labour is deroga- 
tory to a free white man. When he is taught in 
addition to this, to consider the blacks as an in- 
ferior race to the whites, he acquires not only 
the greatest reluctance to work, but habits of 
indolence from which he seldom recovers. And 
though many of the Virginians are persevering 
in mental pursuits, neither reason nor common 
sense is sufficiently powerful to break the tram- 
mels of early formed prejudice against manual 
labour. To show how far this prejudice prevails, 



SLAVERY. 



253 



I may mention that as I was walking in Virginia, 
I was overtaken by a farmer on horseback with 
whom I got into conversation. He pointed out 
to me a farm near where we were, the owner of 
which kept a house of entertainment for travel- 
lers, and asked me if I did not admire it. I re- 
plied in the affirmative, it being nearly the neat- 
est I had seen for many days. " That farm," 
said he, " was brought into its present state by the 
man and his sons who are all whites." I replied 
that it did them great credit. He assented to 
this, but added a hint on the impropriety of 
white men doing the work of blacks, mentioning 
that it was not till lately that they had a black 
man for ostler. The alteration in that particu- 
lar was, he said, very proper. I enquired his 
reason for preferring the black. " Why," said 
he, " I think it is degrading to a white man to 
be an ostler." I told him that I saw nothing de- 
grading in it. " Why then," he replied, " I 
reckon you are a Methodist parson." I assured 
him I was neither a Methodist nor a parson ; 
and he rode on, puzzled to make out what I 
could be, and where I had been raised. As I 
was travelling on the road which runs alongside 
that beautiful river the Mohawk in New York, 
I had as fellow passenger in the stage coach, a 
Virginian lady who had neyer been in that State 



£54 



SLAVE RXV 



before. She found fault with every thing she" 
saw ; and on enquiring of her why she felt so 
displeased, she remarked that she could not bear 
a country where the cows were milked, and the 
horses cleaned by white people ! A sight so dif- 
ferent to what she had been accustomed to, ope- 
rated on her so unpleasantly, as to make her dis- 
regard, or at least unwilling to praise, even the 
beauties of nature. Her vision, darkened by 
early-formed prejudice, misrepresented every 
thing. 

While such are the feelings prevalent in the 
slave States, can we wonder that the poor whites 
should be in a comfortless condition? They are 
of course obliged to work to obtain a livelihood ; 
but though they have the means of improvement,, 
they neglect to avail themselves of them. They 
would rather remain in poverty than place them- 
selves above it by hard labour. The small oc- 
cupier of land in the free States, is an independ- 
ent, industrious man with children industrious 
as himself. In the slave States, he is poor and 
lazy, and his children are brought up without 
having their powers either mental or corporeal 
properly developed. The house of the former 
; is comfortable, that of the latter miserable. It 
is therefore not at all surprising, that the free 



SLAVERY. 



255 



States should advance in improvement, in a ra- 
tio much greater than the slave States. Vir- 
ginia, which from its extent and population, was 
at the Independence of the most weight in the 
political balance, is now of only third or fourth 
rate power. But it will be enquired if the slave- 
holders are not sensible of these things. Sensi- 
ble of them ? Yes ; but as those who have been 
long in the habit of taking opium, though they 
feel their strength decay, and know that the vi* 
tal functions are becoming increasingly weak, 
yet cannot summon resolution to discard the 
slow, deadly poison, so the effort requisite to 
free themselves from the evils of slavery, is too 
great for the slave-holders. They would prefer 
sinking into inanity, to undergoing such a 
change as must be produced by the removal of 
slavery. 

. So far are the slave-holders from wishing to 
put an end to slavery, that in nearly all, if not 
in all the slave States, the legislatures have 
enacted laws to perpetuate and increase it ; and 
the general government of the United States has 
lent its aid to extend it into yet unpeopled dis- 
tricts. This may startle those amongst us, who 
in their simplicity have imagined, that republic- 
anism is more favourable to the rights of man- 



256 



SLAVERY. 



kind than monarchy, but it is nevertheless true. 
Whenever I conversed with persons in America 
on the subject of slavery, and charged the Ame- 
rican people with the guilt of slavery the answer 
I almost invariably received was, " we are in- 
debted to you for it j5 and this seemed quite 
sufficient in their eyes to exculpate them from 
any guilt in continuing it. In order properly to 
understand the subject, it is necessary to revert 
to the colonial history. The first introduction 
of slaves into the colonies took place in 1620, 
being but a few years after the foundation of the 
first permanent settlement. A Dutch vessel 
brought a cargo of them into Virginia which the 
colonists purchased. The trade once begun, 
was continued without any check on the part of 
the colonial, or of the English government. It 
seems therefore rather unfair to charge England 
with the crime of originating slavery in America, 
since, though she might have prevented it, she 
would have restricted the colonies by so doing, 
in what they supposed essential to their welfare. 
All that can be fairly admitted in extenuation of 
slavery at the present day is, that it was intro- 
duced, not by the present lor'ds of the soil, but 
by their ancestors. And if England be consi- 
dered as a sharer in the guilt, a position I shall 
not attempt to dispute, that circumstance is no 



SLAVE RY. 



justification of America for not putting an end 
to it now. The ancestors of the slave holders 
entailed the evil on the country ; but after ad- 
mitting this in excuse for the slave holders, it is 
of importance to ascertain how far they stand 
clear of equal guilt to their posterity. 

When an evil has taken deep root, the skilful 
eradication of it is a work of difficulty. Slavery 
had spread itself so widely over the colonies, es- 
pecially of those in the south, that its sudden re- 
moval might have been accompanied and fol- 
lowed by a general disorganization of society. 
The first object therefore was to put an end to 
the further importation of slaves from Africa. 
When it is remembered that our own govern- 
ment did not decree the Abolition of the 
Slave-trade till 1807, though the question had 
been agitated for twenty years before, we must 
render our meed of praise to the Americans for 
their more speedy justice, as the following facts 
will prove. Virginia abolished the African slave 
trade in 1778, Pennsylvania two years after, and 
Massachusetts and Connecticut soon followed ; 
and finally, the trade was abolished for the re- 
maining States by Congress in 1794. Even so 
early as 1767 a bill was passed through the As- 
sembly of Massachusetts 5 but to the disgrace of 

s 



258 



SLAVERY. 



England, special directions had been sent to the 
Governor to refuse his sanction to it. As far 
therefore as the preliminary measure concerns 
this question, I am ready to give the Americans 
full credit for their disinterestedness, justice, and 
hatred of oppression. 

The next step was to enact laws by which sla- 
very itself would gradually cease ; for independ- 
ent of its injustice and cruelty, it was found to 
be an institution in society which enriched a few 
individuals, but impoverished the mass ; which 
acted like certain manures on land, producing 
for a time an unnatural vegetation, luxurious in- 
deed but rank, and so blended with noisome 
weeds as to be only half as valuable as a crop 
unmixed with refuse. In the good work of pu- 
rifying the country, several of the States were 
not tardy. In Pennsylvania, Ohio, and all the 
States to the north of them, slavery is either abo- 
lished, or in a course of abolition. The propor- 
tion of slaves in these States to the free popula- 
tion, was certainly much smaller than in those 
to the south ; hence the measure was a compa- 
ratively easy one ; and there being a large body 
of persons who were not slave-holders, the influ- 
ence of the slave-holders was insufficient to con- 
tinue the evil. In Maryland, Virginia and the 



SLAVERY. 



259 



other southern States, nearly all the members of 
the legislatures were slave-holders. The conse- 
quence was, as might be expected, that the voice 
of justice and mercy would be overborne by the 
clamour of interest. Prejudice and fear were 
also in action : and so far from anv endeavours 
having been used to abolish slavery, laws have 
been passed of an opposite tendency. In Vir- 
ginia for example, no person can manumit his 
slave except he removes him from the State, or 
obtains a special act for the purpose. In both 
ways, the expense must be great ; and in the lat- 
ter, the attempt would assuredly fail unless un- 
der very peculiar circumstances. In Kentucky 
and Tenessee, the admission of free blacks is 
prohibited, while that of slaves is allowed ! This 
is putting an end to slavery with a vengeance ! 
But it is not of this or of that State that I shall 
particularly complain. I say that the whole Ame- 
rican people are guilty of extending slavery into 
regions yet unpeopled, notwithstanding their fa- 
mous Declaration of Independence, in which li- 
berty is mentioned as a natural and inalienable 
right. Congress decided that slavery should be 
allowed to extend into Missouri and Arkansaw, 
territories not a fiftieth part settled, and where 
the evil had hardly found its way. Congress is 
said to be a fair representation of the people. 
- s 2 



260 



SLAVERY. 



How then can they acquit themselves of aiding 
in the continuance and extension of that blot 
which they curse England for having introdu- 
ced ? It is no answer to say that the northern 
States not only have abolished slavery within 
their boundaries, but that their representatives 
in Congress were unanimous in voting against 
the admission of slavery into the territories just 
mentioned. They have their praise. They de- 
serve well of their country for their exertions 
and patriotism. But noble as their endeavours 
were to preserve the country from the foul stain, 
they failed. And as in every assembly freely 
chosen by the people, the acts of a majority 
must be taken for the will of their constituents, 
the decision of Congress in this case has pro- 
claimed to the world, that the Americans who 
boast of their love of freedom, are in reality the 
friends of slavery ! I am aware of the constitu- 
tional difficulties respecting the admission of Mis- 
souri into the Union under the stipulation of a 
prohibitory act. But how lamentable is it to think 
that they should have operated against the rights 
of unborn thousands ! The city of Washington 
in such a case had more the appearance of Vi- 
enna or St. Petersburg, than the capital of a 
people who understand the principles of liberty. 
But whatever were the difficulties respecting 



SLAVERY. 



261 



Missouri, they did not apply to Arkansaw, yet 
such is unhappily the predilection of the self- 
styled sons of liberty for slavery, that even that 
extensive district must be blessed with it ! A still 
more recent instance of this predilection was ex- 
hibited in Illinois; and as that State is compound- 
ed of the citizens of other States, owing to its 
being of recent settlement, it may perhaps be 
considered as good a summary of the people at 
large, as any one State in the Union. By the 
present constitution of that State slavery is ex- 
cluded ; and so little agreeable is this to the sons 
of liberty, that they resolved if possible to obtain 
a convention to alter it. To effect this, it was 
necessary that two thirds of the legislature should 
favour the measure ; and so eager were the advo- 
cates of slavery to carry their point, that they 
were driven to a curious and iniquitous proce- 
dure. The case was this. The return of one 
of the members against which a petition had 
been , presented, was referred to a committee, 
who, after hearing the statement, confirmed the 
election. When subsequently the motion for a 
convention came before the house, this member 
voted against it; and it so happened that one 
vote short of the requisite number was the re- 
sult. When this became known, the house re- 
solved that this member whose election had been 



262 SLAVERY. 

declared valid by the committee, should vacate 
his seat in favour of his opponent. No protest- 
ation on his part against such flagrant injustice 
availed any thing. The change took place. The 
new member voted on the other side and turned 
the scale in favour of slavery. Let it be remem- 
bered that this memorable event took place soon 
after the news had arrived in America of the ex- 
pulsion of a member from the French Chamber 
of Deputies, which had been denounced in their 
newspapers, as a proof how little the French un- 
derstood the principles of liberty. Whether it 
was a few days before or after the transaction in 
the Illinois Assembly, I know not ; but about 
that time the following toast was drunk at a pub- 
lic dinner in that State : (£ A new constitution 
purely republican, which may guaranty to the 
people of Illinois the peaceable possession of all 
species of property." Here then we have them 
implying that a constitution which prohibits sla- 
very is not purely republican ; for by the phrase, 
all species of property, slaves were meant, other 
property being before secured to them. Another 
toast at the same dinner was stiii more explicit; 
but it is unnecessary to cite it, as the reader must 
perceive that the matter is plain enough already. 
It may however be proper to mention another 
fact relative to another State, to show still more 



SLAVERY. 



263 



clearly, how culpable the Americans are as a bo- 
dy, in using their endeavours to perpetuate sla- 
very. The legislature of Georgia decreed that 
if any of their courts condemned a vessel for car- 
rying on the African slave-trade, the negroes on 
board should not have their liberty, as every one 
would have supposed they ought, but be sold 
publicly as slaves, and the proceeds paid into the 
treasury. This was actually done in several in- 
stances. And if the reader still thinks that the 
Americans are the friends of liberty, he must 
have a prodigious stock of charity. 

Perhaps it may be supposed by some, who are 
willing to put the most favourable construction 
on the acts of the Americans, that their decision 
to extend slavery into Missouri and Arkansaw, 
was with a view to extinguish it throughout the 
United States ; emancipation being a measure 
which might be more easily carried into effect 
in a country where slaves are scattered over a 
wide space, than where they are congregated 
thickly. I should be glad if I could think so. 
But it is obvious that they had no such object 
in view. Imaginary interest and a hatred of 
freedom were the undoubted causes. If the 
slave-holders in the southern States were desir- 
ous of abolishing slavery, would they not ere 



<264 



SLAVERY. 



now have adopted some preliminary means ? I 
have instanced them, because they were undoubt- 
edly the parties, by whose influence the obnox- 
ious bill to extend slavery, was carried through 
Congress. So far are they from having adopted 
any means, that they resolutely contend that the 
general emancipation of the slaves, even if 
brought about gradually, would be a pernicious 
thing, destructive of the peace and and well-be- 
ing of society. Their argument is, that the slaves 
are so degraded, so ignorant, so brutalized, that 
it is totally unsafe to trust them with freedom ; 
for that if they were manumitted, they would 
avail themselves of their liberty to destroy the 
whites and become masters of the country. There 
can be no doubt that to be capable of making a 
right use of liberty, it is needful to be enlighten- 
ed. And if the slaves, instead of being enlight- 
ened, are so ignorant as to be incapable of enjoy- 
ing liberty, it would be well for the planters to 
ascertain, who it is that are chargeable with their 
present degraded condition. Have the slave- 
holders established schools for the instruction of 
the slaves ? On the contrary, the legislatures of 
several of the States have enacted laws prohibi- 
tory of education. The real state of the case 
then is this. The slave-holders having no wish 
to put an end to slavery, and knowing that if 



SLAVERY. 



5265 



knowledge be communicated to the slaves, the 
difficulty of continuing slavery must be increased, 
have exerted themselves to prevent the establish- 
ment of schools, or the communication of any 
learning to them. By this line of conduct, and 
by other abominable ways, they have succeeded 
in degrading the slaves to the utmost of their 
wishes. And then, when they are asked why 
they do not institute an emancipation law, they 
reply by saying, that a people in such a state of 
degradation as the slaves are, are unfit for free- 
dom. They first degrade them, and then urge 
their degradation as a reason for not granting 
them those rights to which nature entitles them. 
And what is to be said in justification of the law, 
which throws impediments in the way of any be- 
nevolent master who is desirous of liberating his 
slaves ? To tell us that like impediments were 
sanctioned by the laws of Lycurgus and of the 
Romans can avail nothing. The Virginian Bill 
of Rights declares, that " all men are by nature 
equally free and independent, and have certain 
rights of which they cannot deprive or divest 
their posterity ; namely, the enjoyment of life 
and liberty, with the means of acquiring or pos- 
sessing property.' ' And yet if a citizen of that 
State wishes to do all in his power towards the 
fulfilment of this declaration, by giving freedom 



266 SLAVERY. 

to a slave, the expense of it is a bar to this act 
of justice. Unless therefore it can be shown, 
that the Greeks and Romans had a similar decla- 
ration of the rights of man, the example of their 
laws is neither a justification nor palliation of the 
Virginians. But as certain religionists profess 
to believe that faith independent of works is suf- 
ficient for salvation, so the Virginians think that 
their public declaration of the natural liberty 
and equality of mankind, exempts them from the 
observance of it. 

The degradation of the slaves is not occa- 
sioned solely by the want of education. That, 
though injurious, is far less operative than other 
causes, a few of which it is right to mention. 
The nonestablishment of marriage amongst them 
tends to produce that laxity of chastity for which 
they are so conspicuous. Doubtless on some es- 
tates, marriage is instituted ; but I believe that 
on by far the greater number, the marriage com- 
pact if made at all, is made to be broken at plea- 
sure. Very few masters would think of punish- 
ing a man who should separate from his wife, and 
the law has no provision to meet the case. If a 
master himself desires the company of a negress, 
be she married or single she has no alternative 
but compliance : for resistance would be resent- 



SLAVERY. 



ed and force used, and no where could she obtain 
redress. Such is the unhappy condition of these 
miserable beings ! It generally happens, that 
they become victims at a very early age, to the 
lust of either the master, his sons, or the over- 
seer. So little regard is paid to decency and 
the common feelings of mankind, that incest is 
a crime of by no means rare occurrence. Who 
does not shudder at the horrid evils of slavery ! 
Charity is doubly blest, and slavery is doubly 
cursed. 

The slaves are not allowed the benefit of trial 
by jury. This perhaps may signify little to them, 
for where prejudice is so strong as it is against 
them, there is but a slender .probability of jus- 
tice being rendered. The magistrates decide on 
their cases without the intervention of a third 
party, One hardship and indeed cruelty to which 
the slaves are subjected, and which tends mate- 
rially to debase them and keep them in debase- 
ment, is their not being allowed to give evidence 
against a white man. If their evidence be to- 
tally unworthy of credence, why are they per- 
mitted to testify against a fellow-slave ? If some 
value be attached to it, why are they not allow- 
ed to give it ? Bolinbroke in his account of De- 
merara, gives it as his opinion that the evidence 



268 SLAVERY. 

of slaves ought to be received in all cases pre- 
cisely as that of other men. His opinion is at 
least worthy of regard, as he is an advocate not 
only for slavery but the slave-trade. 

But of all the degrading measures, scarcely any 
one appears to me so bad, as that of selling men 
and women by public auction in a market-place. 
Look at a poor creature elevated on a table to be 
seen by the purchasers, having to hear the scoff 
of one, the reviling of another, and the jokes of 
a third, and then to be disposed of to the high- 
est bidder like a horse or an ox. Can any thing 
make such a one feel his own debased condition 
more than this ? When men are placed on a le- 
vel with the brutes, it is no wonder if they be- 
come like them. 

As to the general treatment of the slaves em- 
s ployed in domestic service, it is as may be sup- 
posed, superior to that of the field labourers. 
But of the latter I can report, and it is with plea- 
sure that I do so, that they are decently clothed, 
well fed, and not overworked. I questioned 
many of them respecting their condition, all of 
whom assured me that they had nothing to com- 
plain of, except their being kept in bondage. I 
did not witness a single act of cruelty to any one 



SLAVERY. 2ft) 

during my whole journey. One old man told 
me that when he was a boy, great cruelties were 
frequently inflicted, but that of late years, he had 
heard of scarcely a single instance. I speak of 
the parts that came under my own observation, 
for I was assured that in Georgia, Alabama, and 
Louisiana, shameful is the treatment. In Virgi- 
nia, there is not only a milder treatment than 
formerly was the case, but the severity of the 
laws has been much mitigated. It was enacted 
in 1 669, that if a master punished a slave who 
resisted his authority, to such an extremity as to 
cause death, it should not be accounted a felony. 
In I672, it was declared lawful for any person in 
pursuit of a runaway slave, to kill him in case of 
resistance, without being questioned for the act. 
In 1705, two justices might by proclamation, 
outlaw runaways who might then be killed by 
any one in any manner, without being impeached 
for so doing. In 1723, a person indicted for the 
murder of a slave, was not liable to any punish- 
ment, if the jury returned a verdict of man- 
slaughter. And in the same year, a slave going 
abroad by night, if notoriously guilty of the of- 
fence, might be punished by dismembering, or in 
any other manner not touching life. Whoever 
will take the trouble to compare these horrible 
laws with those now in force, will see the great 



270 SLAVERY. 

amendment that has taken place. We may there- 
fore reasonably hope that the remaining unjust 
laws will be repealed one after the other. 

But neither the repeal of these laws, nor the 
amelioration of the slaves, will be adequate to the 
establishment of happiness and security without 
the total abolition of slavery itself, To that ob- 
ject the efforts of every American patriot should 
be directed. Already symptoms of rebellion 
have shown themselves in South Carolina. And 
though they were soon extinguished, it does not 
follow that in all future cases, a similar result 
may take place. Some thing also should be con- 
sidered of the spirit of the times. Can the 
Americans rejoice at the successful struggle 
made by the Greeks to free themselves from 
Turkish thraldom, and suppose that the rest of 
mankind would contemplate a similar struggle 
of their slaves with indifference ? If they do 
suppose so, they know little of the feelings of 
Europeans. Whether tyranny be practised at 
Constantinople or at Washington, at Algiers or 
at New Orleans, mankind will manifest their ab- 
horrence at it, and sympathize with its victims. 
And when the yoke is snapped asunder, and the 
slave walks erect in freedom, joy and exultation 
will be felt by millions. 



SLAVERY. 



271 



The longer slavery is continued, the more dif- 
ficult it becomes to remove it. Certainly the 
dangers to posterity are great, for by some means 
or other it will cease. To suppose that slavery 
will endure for ever in an enlightened land, is as 
absurd as to imagine that mankind will relapse 
into primitive barbarism. In the language of 
Campbell, a poet who is admired on each side 
of the Atlantic, we may truly exclaim, 

(C Yes, thy proud lords, America, shall see 
That man hath yet a soul, and dare be free. 
A little while along thy saddening plains, 
The starless night of desolation reigns. 
Truth shall restore the light by nature given, 
And like Prometheus bring the fire of heaven. 
Prone to the dust Oppression shall be hurled, 
Her name, her nature, blotted from the world." 

The horrors attendant on a general convulsion 
may be avoided by timely expedients. It_ia— 
clear that slavery may be safely abolished if done 
gradually. The energies of the country can 
never be fully shown so long as it remains. Jus- 
tice, policy and patriotism call loudly upon the 
Americans to purge their country of this deadly 
sin. May the call not be in vain ! May the 
generous spirit of Washington and Franklin ani- 
mate some qualified person to commence the 
work. Let him never relax in his labour till he 
has completely succeeded. Let every real friend 



SLAVERY. 



to liberty aid him, and perhaps the wishes of the 
most sanguine may then be realized. Finally, I 
say to the Americans in the words of another 
poet j 

" Bring 

From forth your camp the accursed thing, 
Consign it to remorseless fire, 
Watch till the latest spark expire, 
Then cast the ashes on the wind, 
Nor leave one atom wreck behind." 

But I really fear from the present feeling on the 
subject, that nothing effectual will be attempted. 
It appears likely that slavery and its concomi- 
tant evils will be continued, till in some agitated 
time, the flame long pent will burst out like 
a volcano, and spread death and destruction 
around. 



CHAPTER XX. 



THE SLAVE TRADE. 

Congress has enacted that the African slave 
trade shall be considered piracy as far as Ame- 
rican citizens are concerned in it. It is to be 
hoped that the example set by the Americans 
in this particular, will be followed by the Euro- 
pean governments, for surely piracy itself cannot 
be more wicked or barbarous. The only two 
governments which have hitherto manifested a 
sincere desire to prevent a continuance of that 
diabolical traffic are the English and American, 
both of which have used strong endeavours ; 
and, as we see, the Americans have taken one 
step further than the English, by declaring the 
trade to be piracy. This does them credit. But 
while they have been laudably endeavouring to 
put an end to the African slave trade, what have 
they done to check the American slave trade ? 
To understand what I mean by this, I must men- 
tion that thousands and tens of thousands of 
slaves are purchased in Maryland and Virginia 
for sale in Georgia, Louisiana and other States. 
Agents are stationed at Norfolk, Richmond, 

T 



THE SLAVE TRADE. 

Baltimore, and other places, to attend to the 
purchase and shipment of these unfortunate 
creatures. Now though it must not be supposed 
that this trade is attended with all the horrors of 
the African slave trade, it is yet sufficiently cruel 
to demand the interference of the government. 
So long as it continues, all hopes of abolishing 
slavery are vain, and it increases the evils of it 
at least threefold. As Cowper says, 

" Fleecy locks and black complexion 
Cannot forfeit nature's claim : 
Skins may diifer, but affection 

Dwells in white and black the same." 

But in this trade, husbands are torn from their 
wives, (for marriage is sometimes strictly kept 
by the slaves,) brothers from their sisters, chil- 
dren from their parents. It is true that humane 
persons will not forcibly separate children from 
their parents at a very early age, nor sell a man 
and his wife without stipulating that they shall 
be employed on the same estate. But in the lat- 
ter case, how can they expect that the conditions 
of the bargain will be observed in cases where it 
happens not to be convenient, except the other 
parties are as humane as themselves ? Instances 
have occurred, though for the honour of the na- 
tional character I trust very seldom, of the own- 
ers of slaves separating relations to gratify spleen, 



THE SLAVE TRADE. C 2J5 

and selling them to different persons from sheer 
malignancy. Ought a trade like this to be tolerat- 
ed ? The African slave trade was condemned in 
Congress as iniquitous. Its outrages on huma- 
nity were forcibly depicted. It was described as 
fit only for demons. And is the American slave 
trade fit for men ? Oh ! let the groans and tears of 
its miserable victims answer the question. If the 
crime of purchasing slaves in Africa for the pur- 
pose of transporting them across the Atlantic, is 
to be branded as piracy, andpunished with death, 
what will mankind think of a government which 
sanctions the sale of slaves to a distance of two 
thousand miles from their dearest connexions? 
If it be unconstitutional for the Federal govern- 
ment to legislate on this matter, it is not for the 
State governments within their own limits. Not 
only should slave-owners be prohibited from sell- 
ing their slaves out of the State, but out of the 
county to which they belong. The anomaly of 
condemning the African slave trade as piracy, 
and permitting the continuance of the American 
slave trade, without subjecting those concerned 
in it to either pains or penalties, cannot fail to 
strike the admirers and friends of America as a 
circumstance throwing suspicion over the motive 
which induced her to take the lead of Europe in 
affixing a new name to the former. 

t 2 



276 



THE SLAVE TRADE, 



I believe that so long as slavery continues, 
some sale of slaves must necessarily be allowed. 
But it might with great propriety be confined 
within very narrow limits. By restrictive enact- 
ments, nearly all the evils and horrors of this 
trade may be removed. The world looks to 
America to take the first, or at any rate the se- 
cond station in the career of improvement. Here 
then is a subject deserving of her serious atten- 
tion. May the hopes of mankind respecting her 
not be blasted, by a perseverance in a trade so 
repugnant to our best feelings, so demoralising 
in its tendency, so inimical to the national wel- 
fare. 

There is one point of view to which I have not 
yet directed the attention of the reader. One 
part of the business of the agents of this traffic, 
is to search for and obtain handsome mulatto 
girls, to send them to New Orleans for the pur- 
pose of prostitution. What is the consequence ? 
Why, by the unanimous accounts of all who have 
visited that city, it is the most profligate and li- 
centious of any one in the United States. I 
have been informed that chastity is as rare a vir- 
tue there, as honesty within the walls of Newgate. 

But of all the evils of this traffic, I cannot but 



THE SLAVE TRADE. 



277 



think that next to its cruelty, the most lament- 
able is its never-ceasing tendency to prevent the 
amelioration of the slaves so as to fit them for 
freedom. Many persons in Maryland and Vir- 
ginia carry on the trade of rearing them for the 
southern and western markets, just as other per- 
sons rear cattle. Those two States have long 
ceased to import slaves, on which account it is, 
that the treatment of them is so mild as to leave 
no suspicion of danger of a revival of the seve- 
rity formerly practised. But in Georgia and the ] 
other importing States far different is their lot. 
I speak not it is true from my own observation, 
not having been in those States, but the inform- 
ation I received was from witnesses entitled to 
credence. A very intelligent and amiable mer- 
chant in Baltimore related to me circumstances 
that had fallen under his immediate notice, too 
horrible and disgusting to commit to paper. A 
Massachusetts sailor whom I had every reason 
to regard as a worthy fellow, gave me a similar 
recital. And I was confirmed in my belief of 
their accounts by the tone of some persons from 
Louisiana with whom I chanced to fall into com- 
pany, when they were speaking of the slave po- 
pulation, which they seemed to consider hardly 
human. Now if the States which import slaves 
were prohibited from so doing, a kinder treat- 



THE SLAVE TRADE. 



ment would speedily be adopted ; for the plant- 
ers finding that no slaves could be obtained but 
those born within the territory, would be neces- 
sarily driven to use the w r omen with humanity, 
and the men without cruelty. 

In whatever light this subject is viewed, it 
will be seen that it is pregnant with evils. As 
I before observed, if the slave trade be suffered 
to continue, all hopes of the abolition of slavery 
are vain. But as there no indications that I can 
perceive, of a determination to accomplish the 
latter, I entertain hopes almost as slender of see- 
ing the slave-exporting States putting fetters on 
the trade. And as to the slave-importing States, 
the idea that they will consent to give it up has 
not entered my head. Yet it deserves the seri- 
ous consideration of those enlightened Ameri- 
cans who love their country, and feel for its ho- 
nour, whether the continuance of this traffic is 
not as disreputable as the importation of negroes 
from Africa ; and whether their country will not 
sink in the estimation of the civilized world, by 
allowing the one to be practised with impunity, 
while the other is branded as piracy. 

But if the slave States will not give up this 
infamous and diabolical trade, they are at least 



THE SLAVE TRADE. 



279 



bound to put it under very strict regulations. 
Mahomet ordained, that in the sale of captives, 
the mothers should never be separated from the 
children. Surely then, if the founder of Islam- 
ism yielded to the feelings of humanity in such a 
case, the followers of the merciful and tender- 
hearted Jesus must see the propriety of doing 
likewise. 

" For ah ! what wish can prosper, or what prayer, 
For merchants rich in cargoes of despair, 
Who drive a loathsome traffic, gage and span, 
And buy the muscles and the bones of man ?" 

Certainly if the trade be not speedily put under 
very strict regulations, mankind will loudly ex- 
claim to America, 

" Oh ! shame to thee land of the slave/' 

and it is to be hoped that the time has not yet 
arrived when the governments of Maryland and 
Virginia may be regardless of the opinions of the 
civilized world. 



CHAPTER XXL 

THE FREE BLACKS. 

Under this denomination I include mulattoes, 
and all others of negro descent who are not 
under the curse of slavery. Those persons in 
England who have formed a high opinion of 
America without being acquainted with the real 
state of the opinions and sentiments of the inha- 
bitants, will be surprised to learn that through- 
out the country there prevails a prejudice against 
the coloured people, as strong as that in Ger- 
many and Denmark against the Jews. It ex- 
tends from the highest to the lowest, like a gan- 
grene corrupting the whole. That this preju- 
dice is the strongest in the slave States will be 
readily conceived ; for slavery and a black skin 
being united, the whites have learned to look 
upon one with the same contempt as the other. 
But that in the northern and midland States 
where slavery has ceased, the prejudice should 
be so strong as it is, may excite both wonder and 
regret. If a white person were to walk arm in 
arm with a black, in Broadway or any other of 
the leading streets in New York, he would pro- 



THE FREE BLACKS. ^81 

bably be hooted and pelted by the populace. I 
was once conversing in one of the streets of 
Paris with a New York citizen, when two gen- 
teelly dressed persons, the one a white the other 
a black walked by us in the way I have men- 
tioned. My acquaintance instantly calling my 
attention to them, expressed his astonishment 
and abhorrence at a white man's so degrading 
himself. His surprise then may be easily guess- 
ed, when I informed him that there was not the 
slightest degradation in it in the estimation of 
Europeans. Soon after, I fell into company 
with another gentleman from New York to whom 
I mentioned this circumstance, when he told me, 
that as he was travelling in France by the public 
stage, a black woman was one of the passengers ; 
but that rather than sit at the same table with 
her as the other passengers did, he chose to go 
without his dinner. A gentleman at Philadel- 
phia told me that he had lost his credit for vera- 
city, by mentioning to a company of his fellow 
citizens, that he had seen a black man in Lon- 
don sitting on a sofa with some young white la- 
dies, and conversing familiarly with them. And 
another person told me, that as he was walking 
in Edinburgh with some American women, they 
were quite shocked at the sight of a mulatto 
gentleman with two white ladies walking with 



282 THE FREE BLACKS. 

him, one on each arm. The Americans hardly 
knew how to repress their indignant feelings. 
I will now mention an instance to show the 
hardship which is sometimes felt by the blacks, 
in consequence of this ridiculous prejudice. A 
black woman applied for passage by the ship 
which conveyed me to New York, but the cap- 
tain objecting, she offered to take her meals at a 
separate table. This concession however was un- 
availing, for he refused to take her on any terms. 
On his mentioning this circumstance during the 
voyage, he was much applauded by the Ameri- 
can passengers, particularly by the females, who 
so far from sympathizing with one of their own 
sex under such a difficulty, rejoiced heartily at 
the captain's decision, and said that they would 
sound his praises in New York for it. 

But the most remarkable peculiarity in this 
prejudice is, that it is not the colour of the skin 
which determines where it shall cease. I will 
relate a few circumstances in exemplification. 
The following I received from a Virginia plant- 
er. A number of persons were assembled at a 
village in Virginia to see a horse race, and with 
the usual hospitality of the country a resident of 
the place invited several strangers to his house, 
where he provided them with beds for the night, 



THE FREE BLACKS. 283 

but there being more visiters than beds, two 
young men agreed to share one together. It so 
happened that about a fortnight after, a disco- 
very was made that one of these young men was 
of African descent, which from the lightness of 
his complexion, none of them had suspected. 
This was a terrible dilemma ! His bedfellow had 
to bear the rallyings of his acquaintances and 
was exceedingly mortified at the circumstance ; 
and the master of the house came in for his share 
of ridicule for having entertained such a person 
at his house. Another case similar to this oc- 
curred in the Savannah Fencibles. A man who 
had been two years in that company was acci- 
dentally found to have had a black ancestor. 
This was enough. His comrades would no long- 
er associate with him, and he was discharged. 
Thus it is not necessary for a man to have the 
mark of his ancestry in the colour of his skin to 
make him an outcast, and this too in a land 
which boasts of being the most enlightened in 
the world, and values itself on having broken 
through the prejudices which have so long en- 
slaved Europe ! No property, no virtue, no learn- 
ing, no talent will suffice to remove from the de- 
scendant of a negro, the odium attached to him 
from his birth. Of the truth of this, I learnt a 
curious instance in the daughters of a Scotch- 



284 



THE FREE BLACKS. 



man resident in Virginia. He had, in spite of 
the sentiments of the Virginians, married a mu- 
latto woman, and so little different was the com- 
plexion of his children from that of the whites, 
that they would, have passed among strangers as 
being of pure European origin. But notwith- 
standing this, and though he gave them a liberal 
education and left them large property, no white 
family would associate with them. If this be a 
proof of the enlightened state of the Americans, 
it is none of their humanity. But of all the ways 
in which the prejudice against the blacks and 
their children to the third and fourth generation 
shows itself, no one that I know of, is more ridi- 
culous than that in barbers' shops. A barber in 
New York, himself a coloured man, told me, that 
he dare not shave one of his own race, for fear 
of losing the custom of the whites! I put the 
question to him in consequence of recollecting 
what Fearon has related on this point. 

After reading these statements, many will pro- 
bably be ready to enquire if religious persons as 
well as others manifest such intolerance. Surely, 
it will be said, they at least must know better 
than to treat the blacks as if they were of an in- 
ferior species. Ah ! that was what I thought. 
I concluded that those who believe according to 



THE FREE BLACKS. 



285 



the Bible, that God made of one blood all the 
families that dwell in all the earth, would look 
upon all mankind as brethren, and would be will- 
ing to meet those amongst the blacks who move 
in the same rank in society as themselves, if not 
on equal footing, at least with some familiarity. 
But no ; the professors of religion of every sect, 
except perhaps a few amongst the Catholics and 
Methodists, are just as inflexible here as the vo- 
taries of fashion and the disbelievers in revela- 
tion. Incredible as it may appear, I have seve- 
ral times heard it gravely maintained that the 
blacks are the reprobate, and of course that the 
whites are the elect ! Those who can believe 
that God has condemned a certain portion of his 
creatures to his eternal wrath without regard to 
their virtue or vice, may, for aught I know, act 
rationally in fixing on the negro race as the ob- 
jects of his wrath ; but those who believe that 
God is a just being, and that his tender mercies 
are over all his works, will consider such an as- 
sumption as profane and impious. They will say 
with Pope, 

" Let not this weak, unknowing hand 

Presume thy bolts to throw, 
And deal damnation round the land 

On each I judge thy foe." 

I believe that the spirit of that stanza is not 



286 THE FREE BLACKS. 

sufficiently felt in America, especially amongst 
the disciples of the Genevan doctor. 

I have said I suppose quite enough, to show 
the disposition of the white Americans to their 
black brethren, whom they always speak of as 
Africans, though just as much of Americans as 
themselves. But as it is probable that this book 
may fall into the hands of some of my country- 
men who may have occasion to sojourn in the 
United States, I wish to apprize them of the 
danger they may fall into by saying a word in 
favour of the blacks. Just as I was leaving my 
quarters at a boarding-house in Philadelphia to 
proceed to the west, my landlady told me that 
she thought it needful to give me a caution as 
to my language. When I asked her to explain 
herself, she said that the other boarders had 
formed an opinion that I had been a frequenter 
of low company. " How can that be ?" I en- 
quired. " Why," said she, " you told them that 
you had once dined in company with a black, a 
circumstance which has given them a mean opi- 
nion of you. And therefore," added she, " I 
thought it w r ould be right to give you a hint for 
your future government." Notwithstanding 
this hint, I once or twice fell into little difficul- 
ties. When I was at Norfolk, I was asked what 



THE FREE BLACKS. 



287 



I thought of American beauty. Several females 
being in the company, I could not of course do 
otherwise than use a few complimentary expres- 
sions ; but I happened to add that some of the 
prettiest girls I had seen were mulattoes. This 
created such a sensation, that I was obliged to let 
them know, that Englishmen had not that con- 
tempt for the coloured people which they had. 
But I would not retract my assertion. Some of 
the mulattoes whose features are correspondent 
to the European, are eminently beautiful. I 
was told at Burlington in New Jersey, that a 
coloured girl lived in that town a few years ago, 
who bore the character of being the handsomest 
in the place. At the same time it must be ad- 
mitted that their countenances in general are far 
from being the most agreeable. 

Hitherto I have been endeavouring to show 
how the prejudice against the blacks operates in 
private life. Let me now advert to its influence 
in political matters. In one respect, an atten- 
tion to this part of the subject is of the most 
importance ; for if the blacks have full justice 
rendered to them in all public things, the refu- 
sal of the whites to associate with them in pri- 
vate, will perhaps be no cause for complaint. 
It may be excused on the ground of imperfect 



288 



THE FREE BLACKS. 



civilization. The Americans will probably think 
that such an excuse is worse than the charge ; 
and yet I know not how they can dispute its 
correctness, when the state of other countries is 
considered, where a particular class is severed 
from the rest of the community and treated with 
obloquy. In China the tanhoos, and in Hindostan 
the sooders, are nearly on a par with the blacks 
in America. It is universally admitted that no- 
thing but an improved degree of civilization can 
remove the unnatural prejudice which prevails 
against those two classes ; and what else can re- 
move the same feeling in America ? Some may 
say that religion will. I know that many con- 
sider the Christian religion omnipotent in re- 
moving evil, and I shall not dispute its 'power 
to this end ; yet it is obvious that its progress 
in carrying conviction to a whole nation is so 
slow, that reason and philosophy are auxiliaries 
too valuable to be slighted. They are hand- 
maids to civilization ; and if they gain such an 
ascendancy as to remove the present prejudice, 
religion will be effective in preventing its revi- 
val. The only American I met with, who had 
entirely got rid of his prejudices against the 
blacks, was a moral philosopher who appeared 
to be quite uninfluenced by any religious consi- 
derations in the case. He told me that a three 



THE FREE BLACKS. 



289 



years' residence in Europe had taught him to 
view many things in a new light ; and on his re- 
turn to his native land he was particularly struck 
with the condition of the coloured people. By 
reflection, and from a desire to act conformably 
to the deductions of right reason, he succeeded 
in mastering his dislike to them, and in bringing 
himself to behave to them precisely as to others. 
He lamented the existence of the general preju- 
dice, which he fairly avowed to be disgraceful 
to the national character. This gentleman was 
one of the few Americans whose patriotism did 
not lead him to adopt extravagant terms in 
speaking of his country, fervent as that patriot- 
ism was. He was very desirous that I should 
form a correct estimate of the virtues and good 
qualities of his fellow citizens ; but he consider- 
ed that the contempt manifested to the blacks 
was indefensible. Objectionable however as that 
contempt is, I confess that I think it is more ex- 
cusable than the treatment of them in political 
matters. 

In Virginia, and I believe in all the slave 
States, the evidence of a free black, even when 
free born, is not received in the courts against a 
white man. What sort of freedom is this ? And 
what is to be said for that law of Virginia which 

u 



290 



THE FREE BLACKS. 



imposes a tax on a black man who is nominally 
free, merely because he is black ? Or for that law 
of another state which prohibits such a -one from 
becoming a freeholder ? Or for that in the town 
of Norfolk which enacts that after eight o'clock 
in the evening in winter, or nine o'clock in sum- 
mer, no free black shall be seen in the streets 
without being subject to a flogging ? A bell is 
rung at the appointed hour, like the Conqueror's 
curfew, and wo to the hapless wretch who chances 
not to hear it ! I shall not however dwell upon 
these matters since they take place in the slave 
States, where as the slave holders are the legis- 
lators, we cannot be surprised at them. When 
persons have despotic authority over one class of 
their fellow-beings, they are not likely to be very 
scrupulous in extending it to another, for tyranny 
is ever encroaching ; and the free blacks in those 
States are viewed with particular jealousy and 
hatred. I rather wish to call the reader's atten- 
tion to the States where slavery is abolished, or 
in the course of abolition. In New York, the 
free blacks have no vote for members of Assem- 
bly or of Congress unless they are freeholders. 
This regulation is good in itself, but then it ex- 
tends not to the whites, who may vote without 
being worth a stiver. As a reason for this dis- 
tinction, the New Yorkers plead that the blacks 



THE FREE BLACKS. 



291 



are excused from militia duty. Excused ! a 
line word in such a case. They are excused 
from militia duty in the same way that they are 
excused from voting, that is, they are told that 
they are unworthy to be on the same footing as 
their fellow citizens. The Quakers are excused 
from militia duty. Are they too excused from 
voting if they are not freeholders? But where pre- 
judice is so strong, it is of little use to reason. 

Independently of the distinctions created by 
law, there are others in practice. A coloured 
man is never summoned on a jury, in either 
Pennsylvania or New York, if my information 
be correct. The reason for this must be, that it 
would be derogatory to a white man to sit with 
a black in the same seat, and more especially to 
submit to consult with him respecting the ver- 
dict. And these proud whites are the people 
who make the country resound with their cries 
about liberty and equality ! And who profess 
to pity the Europeans for being subject to the 
contumely of nobility and kingship ! I will here 
relate a circumstance which took place in the 
city of New York a short time before I got there, 
and which was communicated to me by a trades- 
man with whom I was conversing on the condi- 
tion of the coloured people. A poor fellow ap- 

u 2 



292 THE FREE BLACKS. 

''I i tie'' f\ { rta^-r* i .F 4 ' 4. '- f ' f t°. i If, . »\T 

plied to the Mayor for a licence, to act as a town 
carman, producing the requisite certificates of 
his fitness. The Mayor looked at the signatures, 
told the man they were satisfactory, but added, 
that he would grant no licence to any but a 
white ; and thus the poor man was debarred from 
obtaining an honest livelihood by his labour, 
because he was not of the proper colour ! He 
pressed his suit, as may be supposed, urged the 
injustice of the refusal, but it was all in vain. 
The Mayor excused himself, by expressing his 
fears that a compliance would endanger not only 
the man's safety but his own. He said that the 
populace would be likely to pelt him as he walk- 
ed along the street, when it became known that 
he had licensed a black as carman. The Mayor 
was probably right in his apprehensions, as mob 
influence is so great, that as a citizen observed 
to me, they are under a sort of mob rule. As 
I was on board a steam-boat in Virginia, I men- 
tioned these particulars to a New York citizen 
who was a fellow passenger. He said he could 
not believe that the man was refused at all, and 
still less that the Mayor should assign as a rea- 
son for his refusal any fears of the populace. 
Accordingly on my return to the city, I thought 
proper to make particular enquiry as to the truth 
of the story, when it was fully confirmed to me. 



THE FREE BLACKS. 



293 



If any persons shall still dispute it, I would thank 
them to account satisfactorily for the fact, of 
there not being a single coloured man amongst 
the carmen. 

Having thus proved that the blacks though 
nominally free citizens, have neither in law nor 
practice the rights of freemen, I might stop. 
But unfortunately I am compelled to go further. 
A law was recently passed in South Carolina, 
authorising the commitment to prison, of all free 
coloured people, in the capacities of steward, 
cook or mariner, in any ship entering any of the 
ports in that State. And if the master of the 
vessel did not claim them before sailing, they 
were to be sold for slaves ! This law, be it ob- 
served, authorises the selling of free citizens of 
the United States into slavery, without a crime 
being alleged against them, and with no shadow 
of a crime other than that of a dark skin. If 
such a law had been passed in England or France, 
what a clamour would the Americans have made 
on the arbitrary policy of the European courts ! 
But because the victims of this unjust law were 
the descendants of Africans, and the law of 
American origin, but little notice was taken of 
it. Certainly no general indignation was mani- 
fested. Had this law applied to white persons 



THE FREE BLACKS. 



instead of black, would the New Englanders, the 
New Yorkers and the Pennsylvanians have been 
then silent? No, they would have strained every 
nerve rather than suffer it to be carried into exe- 
cution. What then must the world think of their 
professed devotion to the sacred cause of liberty, 
when they are not to be roused at the oppression 
of their own free citizens who are of a different 
colour to themselves ? It is true, that this law 
must be repealed, because it is unconstitutional ; 
but the blacks will be indebted for its repeal to 
the self interest of the masters of vessels, and 
not to the spirit of liberty in the people. When 
I have spoken to one or other white citizen on 
this subject, I have received an answer like this ; 
" Ah ! it is wrong. I wish we could send them 
all to their own country." By their own coun- 
try, Africa is meant, just as if the blacks had not 
the same right to call America their country as 
the whites. When a man is born in a country 
where his father and grandfather have lived be- 
fore him, it is hard indeed that he should be re- 
garded as an alien. Yet certainly the whites 
constantly speak of the blacks as if they were no 
part of the social compact. And as if it were 
not enough to make a distinction while living, 
the very burial grounds must bear witness to the 
circumstance. A line of demarcation is drawn 



THE FREE BLACKS. 



295 



between the space allotted for each. Whether 
they think that the elect and the reprobate ought 
not to have one common grave, I did not enquire. 

The Americans think that they can find an 
easy justification for the exclusion of the free 
blacks from their political rights, in the example 
of England respecting the Catholics. But they 
should bear in mind, that one bad example should 
never be pleaded in palliation of another. I well 
know that the exclusion of the Catholics from 
power in England is as unjust and impolitic as 
that of the blacks in America. I lament that 
such intolerance should prevail, and I am will- 
ing to do what little I can towards its removal 
in both countries. But, let it be considered, that 
the opponents of the Catholics are under an opin- 
ion, that an admission of them to power would 
lead to the overthrow of the established Church, 
and that persecution would ensue to the Protest- 
ants. It is no part of my present business to 
examine the justice of such fears ; but let me 
ask the Americans if they have any fear, that the 
establishment of the blacks on an equality of 
rights, would endanger the stability of their re- 
publican institutions. It is evident that while 
one country wants to maintain Protestant ascend- 
ancy, the other is equally strenuous for white as- 



296 



THE FREE BLACKS. 



cendancy, and that both act at variance with true 
liberty ; the difference between them being,- that 
the people of England have prejudice and fears, 
the people of America prejudice only. 

I have indeed heard two reasons assigned for 
not admitting the blacks to equal privileges with 
the whites, which it is proper to attend to. One 
is, that as the blacks and whites will never amal- 
gamate, the attempt to bring about equality must 
be inimical to the peace and harmony of society. 
The other reason is directly the reverse, namely, 
that the establishment of equality must inevit- 
ably effect a complete amalgamation of the two 
races, and thus deteriorate the species. With re- 
spect to the first, there can be little doubt that at 
no very distant day, marriages of one with the 
other will frequently take place, whether the pre- 
sent restrictions continue or not. The records 
of history lead to this conclusion. A feeling of 
detestation between one people and another, re- 
sidents in the same country, but different in lan- 
guage, physiognomy or some other particular has 
existed in various parts of the world, but it has 
generally been ultimately removed from some 
cause or other, and a happy union has been ef- 
fected. It required three centuries to reconcile 
the Saxons and Normans in England, and about 



THE FREE BLACKS. 



297 



ten to establish a friendly and cordial attachment 
between the Highlanders and Lowlanders in 
Scotland. The Romans and Goths were long 
irreconcileably opposed, yet they at last lost their 
dislike to each other. On the other hand, it may 
be said that four centuries have not effected a 
union between the Greeks and Turks. But it 
must be remembered that the great obstacle to 
a union has been the difference of their religions, 
an obstacle which in the cited cases was scarce- 
ly felt. It is no doubt the religion of the Jews 
which keeps them a distinct people in every coun- 
try where they are scattered, and keeps alive the 
ancient antipathy to them. In the time of the 
first Pharaoh, it was an abomination to the Egypt- 
ians to eat at the same table with the Hebrews, 
and throughout the world they are the objects 
of contumely to the present day. I believe that 
the only country where no political line is drawn 
between them and the rest of the population is 
the United States, where their numbers are very 
small. In England several disgraceful laws exist 
on the Statute book which sometimes operate to 
their disadvantage; but as to any personal dislike 
to them, it is not felt, or at least not manifested, 
by any but the vulgar. If the Americans have 
so far laudably differed from the rest of the world, 
as to lay aside all prejudice in their case and grant 



£98 



THE FREE BLACKS. 



them those rights which are by nature the lot of 
all, may we not reasonably hope that their Christ- 
ian brethren of a differently coloured skin will 
experience similar indulgence ? This brings me 
back to the question of a union between them 
and the whites. The union sooner or later will 
certainly take place, and much as the whites at 
present may dislike the idea, it will contribute to 
their mutual advantage. The notion that the 
species will be deteriorated by the union is ridi- 
culous. Physical reasons may be given for be- 
lieving directly the reverse. The sooner the 
union takes place the better, for a caste in soci- 
ety is a dangerous evil ; and as the removal of 
all political and civil distinctions may accelerate 
it, I think that on that ground alone, the whites 
ought to consent to the removal. But I am per- 
suaded that this would be a reason with them for 
continuing the present distinctions. It would in- 
troduce liberty and equality, two things to which 
the Americans have a fixed hatred, though they 
ever profess an attachment to them. 

Probably some American after reading the 
above, may say that I have omitted the most 
material consideration in the enquiry, namely, 
that the prejudice in America results from the dif- 
ference in colour between the two races, whereas, 



THE FREE BLACKS. 



299 



the prejudices in other countries have arisen from 
political and religious feelings ; and he may add 
that the expulsion of the Moors from Spain, is a 
proof of the impossibility of a union between 
two people so opposite. But it should be re- 
membered that the Spaniards and Moors, like the 
Turks and Greeks, were of religions, neither of 
which would compromise in faith, whereas the 
negroes in America are generally Christians ; in- 
deed with the exception of a few native Africans 
in the Slave states who retain their pagan super- 
stitions, they may all be ranked as such. Con- 
sequently the two cases are not analogous. If 
there be no probability of marriages becoming 
general between the whites and the blacks, I 
should like to know why several of the States 
have laid a heavy penalty on such marriages. In 
Tennessee the penalty is five hundred dollars, 
and in Massachusetts the amount is I believe 
much the same. But what further proof need 
we to show that the two races will become one, 
than the prodigious number of mulattoes to be 
seen in every direction, particularly in Virginia? 
Unfortunately concubinage has superseded ma- 
trimony, but we must not thence infer that this 
will continue to be the case for ever. At pre- 
sent a most horrible state of things exists, occa- 



300 



THE FREE BLACKS* 



sioned mainly by iniquitous laws ; but we may 
hope that improvements will be gradually brought 
about. Of one thing at least we may be nearly 
certain, that unless a union cemented by mar- 
riage takes place between the two races, the con- 
sequences will be awful to posterity, in all those 
States which persist in supporting slavery. When 
a general insurrection of the slaves occurs, a 
massacre of the whites must be expected, if they 
should then be what they now are, determined 
to prevent marriages by all possible means. 

At present the seduction of a coloured girl is 
regarded as a venial offence. A white man may 
be the father of illegitimate mulattoes without 
being considered a bad member of society, or 
even being shunned by virtuous women of the 
first rank. He may even rise to the highest sta- 
tion in the land, and be eulogised as a patriot; but 
if he were to marry the mother of his children, 
he would be considered to be degraded past re- 
medy. If a penalty of five hundred dollars ought 
to be levied on the white man who marries a co- 
loured woman ; what should be the penalty for 
seducing her and refusing to marry? But it is 
the fact, that there is no penalty whatever in the 
latter case. Thus virtue is punished and vice 



THE FREE BLACKS. 



301 



escapes. Such are the inconsistencies into which 
men run, when they legislate in corformity with 
prejudice, rather than right reason. 

The opinion that the blacks are so constitu- 
tionally prone to idleness, that they will never 
become so industrious as the whites, deserves a 
little attention. I have shown in a preceding 
chapter, that natural organization has consider- 
able influence on the human character, and I 
have adduced it to show the small probability of 
civilization being established amongst the Indi- 
ans ; and I shall not dispute the fact that the ne- 
groes are naturally averse to labour, for from the 
best and most unbiassed accounts I could obtain, 
it is indisputable. There is however so much 
difference between the condition of these two 
races, that I see no reason to believe that the ne- 
groes will never become so industrious as the 
whites. The negroes in America have never 
been in the state of hunters ; they have always 
been labourers, for which their robust constitu- 
tions well qualify them. Their labour has it is 
true been generally extorted ; but in the north- 
ern States, many of the free blacks have proved 
themselves capable of active exertion and volun- 
tary labour, to a degree quite equal to the majo- 
rity of their white neighbours. The colony of 



302 



THE FREE BLACKS. 



Sierra Leone is a proof that they may be brought 
into industrious habits, for the directors of the 
Colonization Society have informed the Ame- 
rican public, that that colony is in a state su- 
perior to any of those formed on their own con- 
tinent in an equal time from their origin. They 
certainly will not maintain, that this is owing to 
the superiority in mental powers of the blacks of 
Sierra Leone over their own white ancestors. To 
what then is it to be attributed, but to their in- 
dustry and desire of improvement ? To be con- 
vinced of the impropriety of hastily condemn- 
ing a whole race, it is only necessary to refer to 
Scotland. Probably no people in the world are 
more industrious and laborious than the Scotch 
Lowlanders ; yet, little more than a century ago, 
Fletcher of Saltoun, that staunch though mis- 
taken patriot, who was the strenuous advocate 
of free government, actually proposed to sub- 
ject the great body of the people to slavery, un- 
der the impression that they could never be re- 
claimed from their slothful habits so long as they 
continued to be their own masters; and he 
thought the example of the Spartan Helots 
would be a sufficient justification of the propo- 
sed measure. If ; then, his fears have been proved 
completely groundless by time ; may we not in- 
dulge the hope, that time will be as effectual in 
the case of the American negroes ? 



•chlguoid ad yfim \odi taili looiq & %i frffozd m'm^ 

CHAPTER XXII. 

-U2 9i&te £ m ei ^flGioD to! J tell t oiIdu<g tipsij 

THE COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 

A few years ago, a society was formed for the 
purpose of promoting colonization. Judging by 
first impressions, the idea of America's sending 
her citizens to colonise other lands, when not 
half of her own soil is settled, would be pronoun- 
ced absurd ; but as this is a favourite project with 
a large portion of the people, it demands exami- 
nation. The Phoenicians, the Greeks and other 
nations of antiquity had their colonies under si- 
milar circumstances. Perhaps therefore praise 
is due to the Americans for imitating them. The 
part where they proposed forming a settlement 
was neither in Patagonia, nor in the western parts 
of North America, though we might have sup- 
posed that those districts needed civilization as 
much as almost any in the world, and that colo- 
nies in either of them would be beneficial to the 
nation. The directors of the society, however, 
directed their attention to Africa. The western 
shores of that vast continent had been long deso- 
lated by the slave trade ; and it was supposed 
that some spot might be selected north of the 



304 THE COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 

equator suitable for a colony, which co-operating 
with the English colony of Sierra Leone, might 
not only make the native princes averse to sanc- 
tion the continuance of that terrible scourge, but 
prepare them to accept the blessings of civilized 
life. Agents were accordingly dispatched to as- 
certain the practicability of the measure, and if 
satisfied that it was feasible, to purchase a tract 
of land on which the experiment might be made. 
They fulfilled their assigned task in a creditable 
manner, making choice of Cape Mesurado about 
five hundred miles from Sierra Leone. On their 
return home, they published their journals, writ- 
ten in the style common amongst missionaries, 
expatiating on the spiritual blessings bestowed 
on them in their exploratory journey, the ho- 
nours that must redound to America for her dis- 
interestedness, and anticipating the favour of 
Heaven on so righteous a work. The flame of 
religious zeal was soon kindled. The emigrants 
were to go forth in the strength of the Lord, to 
reclaim from idolatry and superstition the in- 
habitants of those regions, from which so many 
thousands had been torn to wear the bonds of 
slavery, The Mumbo-jumboes, the fetiches, were 
to fall like Dagon before the ark. The Cross 
of Christ was to be displayed, and the eyes of 
the sinful natives were to be directed towards it. 



THE COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 305 

How glorious were the prospects ! How rich the 
reward ! Africa which had had so much reason 
to curse America, was henceforth to pronounce 
blessings on her; and the names of the colonists 
were to descend, like those of Cadmus and Peter 
the Great, with honour to posterity. What then 
must be the surprise of the reader to learn, that 
this project of colonizing Africa, originated in 
the hatred of the whites to their black fellow ci- 
tizens ! Yet so the fact stands. 

Not content with heaping insult and cruelty 
on the blacks, denying them their civil rights, 
and treating them as outcasts, the whites formed 
the design, ridiculous as it was, of freeing the 
country of them altogether. If indeed they had 
proposed to transport the slaves to the land of 
their ancestors, and after establishing regulations 
to secure their permanent freedom and safety, 
had left them to improve the country by the in- 
troduction of the mechanical arts, the scheme 
however impracticable, would have been laud- 
able. But the agitators of it only proposed to 
transport the free blacks. Many of the slave 
holders in consequence, were warm advocates for 
the Colonization Society, the reason for which 
was, that the free blacks having generally more 
information than the slaves, were objects of jea- 

x 



306 THE COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 



lousy to the masters, who are aware that dis- 
content and dissatisfaction when once excited, 
may lead to sedition. So long as the slaves are 
kept in ignorance, they consider themselves safe. 
Doubtless they are partly right in this opinion, 
for tyranny and knowledge seldom exist long to- 
gether. But it appears extraordinary, that they 
should have no fears of a revolt at a future time, 
when the country will be thickly populated ; and 
in the event of a revolt, the absence of the free 
blacks will signify comparatively little. And 
though an uneducated mass of people are unable 
to proceed with the union and energy of the 
better informed, yet they are more likely to fall 
into excesses of the most horrid kind. But the 
slave holders seem to have thought that if all 
the free blacks were once removed, they could 
effectually prevent the manumission of the slaves, 
and then rivet the chains so firmly, that the at- 
tempt to break them must be vain. As however 
they were desirous of having persons in the free 
States as their coadjutors, they very prudently 
took care to urge such arguments only as were 
likely to meet the views of all. The active ma- 
nagers of the society were religious zealots, with 
whom the greater part of the slave holders would 
not have desired to join, if they could have suc- 
ceededin their project by any other means. Indeed 



THE COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 307 



I apprehend that the society would never have 
been formed, if the zealots had not instigated 
the slave holders to assist with their money and 
patronage. 

When the society was once formed, it was 
found expedient to resort to other motives than 
those of benefiting Africa by the introduction of 
civilization and Christianity ; for though those 
motives might be strong enough to engage some 
of the coloured people to become colonists, they 
were insufficient to induce the opulent to con- 
tribute in a pecuniary way. Accordingly, it was 
represented that if a colony were formed, the 
free blacks would be ready to transport them- 
selves to it, in the hopes of attaining that respect 
which is denied to them at home ; and that thus 
in a few years the whole of them would be re- 
moved from the soil of America. How futile this 
hope was, will be evident to any one who consi- 
ders the enormous expense of transporting near- 
ly a quarter of a million of men across the At- 
lantic, besides the certainty that the majority 
would prefer the land of their birth with all its 
disabilities, to the uncertain hope of obtaining 
an improved condition in Africa. It is certain 
that the Colonization Society could not remove 
them so fast as they increase. Yet such was the 

x 2 



308 THE COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 

infatuation on this subject, that many persons 
actually believed, that not only nearly all the 
free blacks would be removed, but that after- 
wards the slave holders would emancipate the 
slaves, and send them after their brethren ; and 
that thus the whites would be able to enjoy the 
country, without the mortification of seeing men 
of African origin sharing it with them. This was 
currently believed by a very large portion of the 
whites, notwithstanding the fact that the whole 
coloured population was nearly two millions. 
People may believe the marvellous travels of 
Gulliver and Munchausen, there being some pro- 
bable incidents in them to give the appearance 
of reality to the whole ; but what are we to 
think of those who could persuade themselves 
that the Colonization Society could effect the 
riddance of two million men from the United 
States ? 

But not only was the scheme of the promoters 
of this society absurd, but it was full of contra- 
dictions. This was no more than was to be ex- 
pected in a measure the result of prejudice. It 
was alledged that the free blacks were such a 
degraded, worthless, lazy set of people, that it 
was impossible for the country to attain to full 
prosperity, so long as so great a portion of the 



THE COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 309 

community were of that class. It was said, and 
I heard it repeated over and over again, that 
they were so profligate and corrupt, that no 
good was ever to be expected from them. And 
yet these were the people who were to ci- 
vilize Africa ! If it be said that it was the inten- 
tion of the managers to send out such only as 
were moral and religious, I should like to know 
if it could be beneficial to America, to lose the 
best characters amongst the coloured people, and 
retain the worst. This enquiry is of great im- 
portance, as, however disinterested the managers 
may profess themselves, they cannot deny that 
with all their professions of a desire to benefit 
Africa, their main object was to benefit America. 
It was this aiming at one thing and professing 
another, which led them into so many contra- 
dictions as are apparent in their reports. Thus 
an inconsistency shows itself in the arguments 
to induce the northern and southern people to 
believe that the object of the society was one de- 
serving the support of both classes. To gain the 
contributions of people of the free States, the 
managers represented, that the transportation 
of the free blacks would render the abolition of 
slavery a comparatively easy work ; but to pre- 
vent the slave holders from taking alarm, they 
expressly declared that their funds should not be 



310 THE COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 



appropriated to any other object than coloniza- 
tion. By thus trying to conciliate both parties, 
they have been as oscillatory as a pendulum, but 
the oscillation has kept the machine in motion. 
Thus when wishing to urge persons to become 
members of the society, from a consideration of 
the benefits to their country, to be expected 
from an emigration of the free blacks, they cha- 
racterise them as I have just mentioned. But 
when taking the other side, of the good to Africa, 
they state that one object of the society is "to 
instruct the natives in the arts and the true re- 
ligion, and exhibit before them the superior hap- 
piness of a humane, industrious and Christian 
people." Now if the black Americans are a hu- 
mane, industrious and Christian people, why 
should the whites desire to remove them from 
the country ? But the fact is, that the common 
character given of the coloured people is, that 
they are lazy, vicious and almost every way bad, 
and decidedly inferior to the whites in mental 
capacity. 

In proof of their proneness to vice and crime, 
it is asserted, that the number of black criminals 
is far greater than that of white, in proportion 
to their respective numerical amount. If such 
be the fact, it is not to be wondered at, as those 



THE COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 311 

put under a ban are generally worse than others. 
But it is unfair to make the comparison with the 
whole population, because nearly all the crimi- 
nals in jails are of the class of poor ; and very 
few coloured people belong to any other class. 
If these things be borne in mind, I believe that 
the bad character of the coloured people will not 
appear to so great disadvantage as it now does. 
At Richmond, where the blacks are equal or 
superior to the whites in number, I found on en- 
quiry that there were twice as many white pri- 
soners as black. In Philadelphia and Baltimore 
the result was different, being if I remember 
rightly (for I seem to have omitted to make a 
memorandum) in the former place, nearly on a 
level y in the latter, a preponderance though a 
small one of the blacks. However, admitting 
for argument's sake that the blacks are worse 
than the whites, I contend that their bad quali- 
ties arise not so much from inherent viciousness 
as from bad government and popular prejudice. 
Owing to bad government they want a proper 
stimulus : owing to popular prejudice they are 
debarred from the best opportunities for mental 
improvement. 

This brings me to the question of their sup- 
posed inferiority in intellect. I have no doubt that 



312 THE COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 

the mental capacities of nations vary as much as 
their bodily. There is perhaps as much difference 
in mind between the savages of Australia and the 
Greeks, as in stature between the Tartars and the 
Patagonians. Education taken in its widest sense, 
can certainly effect a prodigious change in the 
character of man ; but as it is impossible to make 
a philosopher of an idiot, so it may be extreme- 
ly difficult to raise those nations to mental ener- 
gy, which have hitherto shown only timidity and 
weakness. Voltaire has recorded as his opinion, 
that the Chinese are so constituted as to be phy- 
sically incapable of advancing so high in civili- 
zation as many other people. The great diver- 
sity in the human species, both as it respects 
mind and body, furnished him with an argument 
against the Mosaic history of the creation, and 
led him to insist that the Deity must have ori- 
ginally created several pairs, and placed them in 
different parts of the earth. Other authors of in- 
ferior celebrity have maintained the same. In 
opposition to them, Doctor Prichard in his inge- 
nious dissertation on the causes of the diversity, 
argues with some plausibility, that there was but 
one original pair of human beings, and that they 
were black. Without being convinced by his 
reasoning of the truth of his positions, I must ad- 
mit that he has demonstrated convincingly, that 



THE COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 313 



most of the varieties in colour and formation 
may be traced to adequate causes. As a believer 
in revelation, I question not the truth of all man- 
kind being of one blood, and therefore I cannot 
believe that it is absolutely impossible, though 
it may require several generations, to bring one 
nation on a level with another. Hence I have 
no fears that the negroes will ever prove them- 
selves unfit for the higher mental pursuits. In- 
deed it is a question with me, if they are much, 
if any, below the whites in natural capacity. Se- 
veral of them in Hayti have exhibited to the 
world powers of mind very extraordinary. Like 
the ore of some precious metal, they have ap- 
peared to want only the refiner's fire to prove 
their full value. Though America has not yet 
produced negroes equally eminent, I doubt not 
that when she places them in circumstances fa- 
vourable to the development of their powers, 
she also will be able to boast of some of them ^ 
as ornaments. At present, few of them, even in 
the northern States, attain more than the rudi- 
ments of learning, while in the southern States 
every obstacle is thrown in the way of their im- 
provement. A young man opened a school for 
the free blacks at Fredericsburg in Virginia, but 
after continuing it awhile, he tried the experi- 
ment of a school for whites. The latter failed, 



314 THE COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 



from the sole circumstance, as I was assured by 
another schoolmaster, of his having begun with 
the blacks. Such was the prejudice against him 
that his qualifications availed him nothing. While 
prejudice is thus strong, the assertion of the 
whites, that the blacks are below them in men- 
tal capacity, must necessarily be received du- 
biously. The master of what is called the African 
School in New York, but which is a Lancastrian 
school for coloured American children, told me 
that he could not allow that the negroes were de- 
ficient in intellect. He assured me, that if his 
scholars were found not to have made progress 
equal to others in similar schools for white child- 
ren, the fault must lie with him. " I shall not", 
said he, " exempt myself from blame, on the plea 
of their mental incapacity". In fact, the school 
is one of the best managed I ever saw, and the 
advancement of the children quite delightful to 
witness : it does him great credit. Besides read- 
ing, writing, and the common rules of arithme- 
tic, they are taught some of the higher branches 
of the latter, geography, and the drawing of 
maps. He showed me maps of different coun- 
tries drawn by some of his scholars, which were 
finished with great neatness, and would be exhi- 
bited w T ith pleasure by any school-master in the 
country. Shortly after my visit to this school, 



THE COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 315 

I fell in company on Long Island with some 
young Virginians who were making a tour for 
pleasure and improvement. Finding that they 
had adopted the prevalent opinion of the men- 
tal inferiority of negroes, I recommended them 
to go to this school, and ascertain whether it was 
correct. But they all made excuses, and I be- 
lieve not one of them went, the fact being, that 
whatever desire they might have for improve- 
ment, they had no wish to relinquish a favourite 
prejudice. 

These remarks on the moral and mental con- 
dition of the free blacks, are by no means irre- 
levant to the subject of this chapter ; for the ad- 
vocates of the Colonization Society having re- 
presented that their present degradation is inca- 
pable of remedy, other than that of placing them 
in another country, I was desirous of proving the 
untenableness of the position. Indeed the 
pamphlets issued by the society contain a refu- 
tation of it. In one, the free blacks are spoken 
of as " an oppressed people" ; and surely the 
managers of the society need not to be remind- 
ed, that oppression, as in the case of the Greeks 
under Turkish domination, or of the Russian and 
Polish boors under an aristocracy, invariably pro- 
duces degradation. Let me then ask them if the 



316 



THE COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 



removal of the oppression, would not speedily be 
followed by an amelioration of their condition. 
Men have improved in all the countries of Eu- 
rope, where tyranny has ceased, and is America 
alone to be an exception to such improvement ? 
Besides, the managers in one of their reports 
give us the strongest reason for believing, that 
the negroes are susceptible of very great improve- 
ment. They say that the natives of Africa are 
" mild, docile and amiable". How happens it 
then, that Americans of African descent are so 
much the reverse ? Let them answer that if 
they can, without admitting that injustice and 
contemptuous treatment have been the cause. 

It has been said by Lord Byron that this is the 
age of cant, a designation very apposite. The 
American Colonization Society is a standing 
proof how operative cant is, even on a shrewd, 
intelligent people. The English have become 
proverbial for their gullibility, but the Americans 
seem to be quite as obnoxious to it. In what 
other way can we account for the popularity of 
this society? It must fail in the accomplishment 
of its professed object, that of removing the 
great body of free coloured people ; it is calcu- 
lated to retard the advancement of those who re- 
main ; and it may perhaps be instrumental to the 



THE COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 317 

perpetuation of slavery. It may be said, that 
amongst the promoters of the society, are many 
who cannot be suspected of any sinister design, 
or of any wish to favour the slave holders in fixing 
the shackles of their slaves more firmly. Granted ; 
but worthy men under prejudices often become 
the dupes of more artful characters, who lead 
them imperceptibly forward as the bell-wether 
leads the flock. That many worthy men have 
been duped respecting the tendency of this so- 
ciety I cannot doubt ; for as I find in one report 
a belief expressed, that the removal of the free 
coloured people will amongst other benefits, make 
the slave more obedient to his master, I must be 
left to my suspicion that the designs of some of 
the supporters of the society, are neither disin- 
terested nor patriotic. As to the civilization of 
Africa, on which they so enlarge, it is certain that 
that was altogether a piece of cant, put forward 
to give a plausibility and amiability to the scheme 
for promoting an emigration of the coloured peo- 
ple ; for if it had not been for the hope of free- 
ing the country of them, Africa might have wait- 
ed a century, before civilization would have been 
introduced from America. 

I attended the sixth anniversary of the society, 
which took place at Washington during the sit- 



318 



THE COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 



ting of Congress. The mover of the first reso- 
lution made a long, incoherent speech, abound- 
ing with high-flown metaphors and similes in the 
style of Hibernian eloquence, mixed with senti- 
mentality on the condition of the blacks. He 
said that he himself was the holder of two hun- 
dred slaves ; and that on retiring to his patrimo- 
nial estate, instead of seeing a thriving tenantry 
around him, he saw abjectness and misery. Af- 
ter detailing some cruelties, that had in his pre- 
sence been inflicted on some slaves, and enlarg- 
ing on the evils of slavery, he concluded by ex- 
pressing his hope, that the society would do cre- 
dit to the only country that ever was truly free I 
This delectable climax was quite enough for 
me, but the auditory appeared perfectly to ac- 
quiesce in it. No symptoms of disapprobation 
were observable ; none were publicly urged. 
And yet it is curious that the Americans will 
surfer such jokes as this to be passed upon them. 
In the Report of the managers, America was 
mentioned as tc the freest and happiest nation up- 
on the earth" ; on which I have to remark, that 
so long as she contains a million and a half of 
slaves, superlatives must appear ridiculous. Is 
there no other country with a smaller proportion 
than one sixth of slaves ? And as to happiness, 
the society state in one of their reports, that 



THE COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 



319 



" the least observation shows, that free coloured 
persons are not, and cannot, be either useful or 
happy amongst us". They will scarcely, I pre- 
sume, contend that the slaves are happy. If then 
about two millions of persons out of ten are un- 
happy, does it not require marvellous assurance 
to boast of their country as the happiest in the 
world? The Americans however, were never 
thought deficient in self praise. 

The free remarks I have offered on this socie- 
ty, are without the slightest wish to disparage 
America. I should, if writing on some institu- 
tions in England, adopt just the same latitude, 
or probably a wider. The founders of the so- 
ciety of course made use of their reason when 
they projected it; but when reason is warped by 
prejudice, it falls into gross inconsistencies. It (/ 
is often as difficult to bring right reason and pre- 
judice into cordial union as water and oil : the 
latter will get uppermost. If the Colonization 
Society persist in supporting the idea, that the 
great body of free blacks will be persuaded to 
emigrate across the Atlantic, it will become in 
a few years the laughingstock of the country. 

This society being, as I have shown, founded 
on an insecure basis, and the superstructure be- 



320 THE COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 

ing neither ornamental nor useful, the whole 
edifice will soon either moulder silently away, or 
fall headlong into ruins. In the mean time, let 
the founders of it look around, and ascertain 
whether their time and money cannot be better . 
employed, than in endeavouring to prop it up. 
In order to convince them that this may be the 
case, I will inform them that several societies 
have been recently formed in England, for the 
express purpose of effecting the abolition of sla- 
very throughout the British dominions. May 
this example be followed in America. The sup- 
position of the possibility of clearing the country 
of the coloured people, is too preposterous to be 
much longer entertained. In America they are : 
in America they must remain. Their numbers 
in time will be so formidable, that the con- 
tinuance of oppression will be dangerous. Let 
the white inhabitants therefore, instead of con- 
tributing their money to colonize them, use their 
endeavours to abolish slavery with all its evils, 
and finally to raise the blacks to their proper sta- 
tion, that is, to a level with the whites. I well 
know that this will be too republican, for the 
whites to coincide with it at present. But let 
them remember, that if the present system of ir- 
ritation and injustice be continued, America 
when it becomes populous, will be as Ireland has 



THE COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 321 



often been, the scene of rapine, murder and 
every evil deed. Like causes will produce like 
effects. It will be found in time, that permanent 
tranquillity can only be ensured, by the diffusion 
of knowledge and the practice of justice. To 
those who say, 

" That never can true reconcilement grow, 

Where wounds of deadly hate have pierced so deep 

I reply, that it is for savages and not for civili- 
zed beings to continue implacable. Liberal opi- 
nions work their way slowly into society, but 
they generally ultimately prevail. As there are 
some amongst the members of the Colonization 
Society, who have favoured it under the idea, 
that the blacks would never experience the be- 
nefit of liberal opinions so long as they continued 
in America, I shall conclude this chapter by an 
attempt to show, that further reflection and ob- 
servation may induce them to change their opi- 
nion. 

No people in the world are more averse to 
slavery than the religious society of the Friends. 
They expel from their communion all those who 
hold their fellow men in bondage. And yet a 
century ago, Virginia and the West Indies 
abounded with Friends who were slave holders to 

Y 



322 THE COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 



a great extent. So little evil did they then view 
in the practice, that they promoted it in their 
corporate capacity. One of their ministers re- 
sident at Flushing in Long Island, informed me 
that in the records of the meeting to which he 
belonged, there was a curious instance of it. A 
woman applied to the meeting for assistance in 
the shape of a small loan to enable her to pur- 
chase a negro. The request was complied with, 
and five pounds were advanced. Now if such an 
alteration has taken place in their views, that 
what a century ago was sanctioned by the body, 
must not now be tolerated in a single member, 
may we not suppose that the time is approach- 
ing, when they will regard it as anti-christian, 
to show a disregard to the civil rights of their 
coloured fellow citizens in their remaining dis- 
abilities ? Or is it too much to hope that they 
will endeavour to introduce a complete and cor- 
dial union between them and the whites ? If 
there be no symptoms of such a thing at present, 
let it not thence be inferred that it is hopeless, 
as short sighted observers probably saw no symp- 
toms of the Reformation, of the French Revo- 
lution, or of any other considerable change in 
society. Without boasting of superior perspi- 
cacity, I may state, that I think I can perceive 
that the way is gradually opening, for a more 



THE COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 323 

equitable treatment of the free blacks in the 
northern States, and that there is some little pro- 
spect of religion becoming auxiliary to the abo- 
lition of slavery in the southern ; a prospect, 
indistinct and dim I confess, but which may pos- 
sibly brighten and become clear. A sensible, 
pious woman, resident near Charlottesville in 
Virginia, told me that though Virginia was her 
native State, and the one she had al ways lived in, 
she should prefer having a home in one not dis- 
graced by slavery. She said, that she couldneither 
reconcile slavery, nor the contemptuous treat- 
ment of the free coloured people, with the pre- 
cepts of the gospel ; and that she endeavoured as 
far as she could, to diffuse more liberal opinions 
respecting them. I know not to what denomi- 
nation of Christians she belonged, but she seem- 
ed to me to possess several Christian virtues. 
I may also refer to the example of the farmer 
near the Dismal Swamp, who so hospitably en- 
tertained me, as another proof that the subject 
of slavery claims the serious attention of a few 
religious persons who wish to see a lustration of 
the land. In the General Assembly of the Pres- 
byterian Church, two measures have been re- 
cently proposed, which also tend to show, that 
the subject will ere long, be forced on the atten- 
tion of those who profess religion. One was, to 
y 2 



324 THE COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 

exclude all slave holders from the ministry; 
the other, to deny communion to slave traders. 
Both these proposals were, as was to be suppos- 
ed, negatived ; but the very making of them is 
a good symptom. I anticipate some exertions 
amongst the Methodists also. And though my 
fears of a beneficial result exceed my hopes, yet, 
if the members of the Colonization Society will 
but co-operate, my views will be materially al- 
tered. The continuance of the society on its 
present footing, I regard as inimical to the wel- 
fare of the country. As however, I know that 
many members of the society are actuated by 
what they believe to be pure motives, I will men- 
tion a circumstance to show how mistaken men 
may be in the proper line of policy, and into 
what inconsistencies they may fall even when 
labouring in what they suppose to be the cause 
of philanthropy. I was present at a private 
meeting of several of the clergy at Norfolk, who 
were assembled for the purpose of considering 
the best means of aiding the Bible Society, the 
Colonization Society, and the Society for the 
Conversion of the Jews. With respect to the 
first, I concurred in their views, for though I 
can perceive several objectionable matters in the 
Bible Society, yet as its main object is favour- 
able to the improvement of mankind, I readily 



THE COLONIZATION SOCIETY. 3°25 

wave minor objections. As to the Colonization 
Society, for the reasons I have given I could not 
unite with them. One reason urged by them in 
its favour was, that it is unfavourable to the com- 
mon welfare to have a separate body existing in 
the country ; and as the blacks must continue a 
separate body, it would be to their advantage, 
as well as to the advantage of the whites, for 
them to be transported to a country where the 
inhabitants were like themselves. And yet while 
these i clergymen were for promoting the emi- 
gration of the blacks, they were also for encou- 
raging the immigration of the Jews ; though 
they must have known that no people in the 
world are more careful to keep themselves dis- 
tinct. I know of no particular harm to a com- 
munity in the existence of distinct classes, pro- 
vided they have equal rights. What is wanted 
therefore, is neither the transportation of the 
Jews from Europe to America, nor of the blacks 
from America to Africa. All that is wanted is 
that equality of rights, which both continents 
refuse to the objects of their respective preju- 
dices. The application of another remedy is in- 
jurious, inasmuch as it must be very partial, and 
has a tendency to withdraw the attention from 
the radical one. 



CHAPTER XXIII. 

THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE. 

When we consider the prodigious extent of the 
United States, and of the numerous British co- 
lonies in North America, the West Indies, Africa 
and Australia, we may infer that the English 
language will be spoken by more millions of peo- 
ple, than any other in the world. The Spanish, 
the French and the Russian languages will be 
spoken by many millions more than they now 
are ; but it appears unlikely that they will be 
either so widely diffused, or used by so numer- 
ous a population as the English. Even the 
Chinese, though at present the predominant lan- 
guage, will probably in a few centuries yield the 
supremacy to the English. Under these cir- 
cumstances, it is a subject of speculation whe- 
ther it will not more and more branch into dis- 
tinct dialects. At first sight we might suppose 
that this will be the case, but when we reflect on 
the communication subsisting between the vari- 
ous countries where it prevails, and bear in mind 
that the standard and popular authors of Eng- 
land, are read in all of them, we may be led to 



THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE. 



327 



draw a different conclusion. Slight differences 
must necessarily prevail ; but perhaps these may 
increase its copiousness, without diminishing its 
beauty or destroying its unity. 

The United States having been peopled from 
different parts of England and Ireland, the pe- 
culiarities of the various districts have in a great 
measure ceased. As far as pronunciation is con- 
cerned, the mass of people speak better English, 
than the mass of people in England. This I 
know will startle some, but its correctness will 
become manifest when I state, that in no part, 
except in those occupied by the descendants of 
the Dutch and German settlers, is any unintel- 
ligible jargon in vogue. "We hear nothing so bad 
in America as the Suffolk whine, the Yorkshire 
clipping, or the Newcastle guttural. We never 
hear the letter H aspirated improperly, nor omit- 
ted to be aspirated where propriety requires it. 
The common pronunciation approximates to that 
of the well educated class of London and its 
vicinity. But it must not be supposed that there 
is a perfect uniformity of pronunciation through- 
out the country. There is a marked difference 
for instance, between Connecticut and Virginia ; 
not so much however in the accentuation of 
words, nor in the length of the vowel sounds, as 



328 THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE. 



in the inflection of the voice. In the former 
State, if my memory be correct, the rising in- 
flection is prevalent, and in the latter, the failing 
inflection. Of the two however, probably Con- 
necticut assimilates the most nearly to England, 
as persons in that State took me for one of them- 
selves, and in Virginia, I was several times sup- 
posed to be a New Englander. A Virginian who 
had resided in his youth for several years in Con- 
necticut, told me that I spoke so exactly like the 
people of that State, that he had supposed, before 
I told him what countryman I was, that I was a 
native of it. On the other hand, I was told by 
others in Virginia and Maryland, that they ob- 
served no difference between me and them. 
From these particulars it will easily be inferred, 
that much greater uniformity prevails in Ame- 
rica than in England. The nearest approach to 
any of our provincial peculiarities is in the cen- 
tral part of New York, where I met with persons 
whom I fully believed to be natives of Devon- 
shire, till on enquiry, I was told they were born 
in the part where they resided. I recollect only 
two or three instances, of words being pro- 
nounced differently to what is considered cor- 
rect amongst polite speakers in England. The 
second syllable of engine is sounded long, where- 
as with us, it is I believe invariably short, or as 



THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE. 32 ( J 

if there was no final vowel. The word learned, 
which when used adjectively, we pronounce in 
two syllables, they pronounce in one. We make 
clerk rhyme to bark, while they make it rhyme to 
jerk. There are most likely some others which ei- 
ther escaped my notice, or have slipped from my 
memory ; but when I add, that their utterance is 
less rapid than ours, and their articulation per- 
haps rather more distinct, the reader will have a 
correct account of their pronunciation. 

With respect to the right application of words, 
I cannot give so good an account. In New Eng- 
land the word clever is used for worthy, and 
smart for clever. As smart is sometimes used in 
that sense in England, and as there are examples 
for it in our authors, I shall not object. But I 
think, that as no standard English author either 
ancient or modern, uses clever in the sense they 
do, and as the Virginians attach the same mean- 
ing to it as we do, the New Englanders must ac- 
knowledge themselves in error. For another pe- 
culiarity which has subjected them to much ban- 
tering, namely, the use of / guess, for I suppose, 
or I think, I can offer for them this defence, that 
in one part of Lancashire, the same use occurs. 
Again, the word elegant is used in a sense signi- 
fying of good quality, as elegantbeef, an elegant 



330 



THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE. 



log-house ; a sense never adopted by a correct 
writer, but current in conversation in Ireland, 
In Maryland, a person who has a house to let, 
advertises it to hire ; and by the balance of any 
thing he means the remainder : while instead of 
/ guess he says I reckon. These particulars it 
might be as well to alter, though the phrase / 
reckon is common in many parts of England. 
Autumn is generally called the fall, an expres- 
sion sometimes to be heard in the western parts 
of England amongst the vulgar. Shops are call- 
ed stores, to which I have no objection, the word 
being expressive. Cocks are called roosters, 
though that word is not inserted, so far as my 
observation goes, in any dictionary. Woollen 
and linen drapery articles are denominated dry 
goods, and a draper is designated as the keeper 
of a dry goods' store* Few persons will think that 
these alterations are improvements. But one of 
the strangest misapplications of words is common 
in Maryland and Virginia, though I believe not 
in the midland and northern States : it is thatof 
calling small stones or pebbles, rocks. Traders 
and shopkeepers are commonly styled merchants. 
Does this arise from that fondness for high sound- 
ing words for which the Americans, notwith- 
standing their republicanism, have been long 
marked ? The word grade for rank or station, 



THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE. 



331 



is I believe common in all parts of America, 
though not sanctioned by good authorities ; the 
same may be said of the verb to progress, and 
the adjective lengthy. Of vulgarisms I shall take 
no notice, further than to remark, that those Eng- 
lish travellers who have reported pot-house dia- 
logues where they abound, have shown a con- 
temptible spirit, in wishing by such means to 
represent the Americans as' incapable of speak- 
ing good English. 

In the grammatical construction of sentences, 
but little difference between the two countries is 
observable. Perhaps however the educated part 
of society in America, are not quite so careful 
to observe the rules of syntax, as the same class 
in England ; the reason for which I take to be, 
that not rinding it necessary to use endeavours 
to free themselves from provincialisms in pro- 
nunciation, their attention is less called to the 
niceties of language, than is the case with most 
Englishmen. I must also remark, that some 
amongst them seem too fond of adopting those 
cant expressions, which from time to time become 
current with persons who affect the airs and be- 
haviour of coachmen, stable-boys and the like ; 
which expressions were condemned by Swift, as 
the most ruinous of all corruptions in language. 



332 



THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE. 



The Americans say, and say correctly, that 
they have as much right to set themselves up for 
authorities in the use of words as the English. 
Still, I cannot help thinking, that it would be 
better for them not to reject the authority of 
those standard English authors whose works are 
our common property. The preservation of our 
language in uniformity and purity, is the inter- 
est of both countries ; and as the colonies natu- 
rally appeal to England for example in the use 
of words, America may find her advantage in 
yielding allegiance. On the other hand, an Eng- 
lishman or a Scotchman desirous of learning to 
speak English in such a manner as not to be 
distinguished for provincial peculiarity, proba- 
bly he could not do better than to reside for a 
few years in one of the principal cities in the Unit- 
ed States ; and if I were asked what city seems 
to me to have the best pronunciation, I should 
say that I think it is Baltimore. In Philadelphia 
and New York, I observed that words with an 
initial V, were pronounced by some, as if spelt 
with a W. This is the only one of our vulgar 
errors with which I can charge them ; and as a 
counterpoise to this I may properly here add, 
that the Americans universally pronounce the 
letter H in words where it is preceded by W, 
as the Scotch and Irish do ; whereas the unedu- 



THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE. 



SS3 



cated English almost universally pronounce such 
words as if no H occurred. The only exception 
to this that has come under my notice, is in that 
part of Northumberland contiguous to Scotland. 
Persons of education however, are careful to 
make the proper distinction between when and 
wen, whale and wale. 

These remarks may appear trifling to some ; 
but those who know how much pains were taken 
by the Roman rhetoricians to pronounce their 
language correctly, will not think them unim- 
portant. And those who are fond of observing 
the mutations and diversities of our language, 
will be pleased at gaining information of its pre- 
sent state in America. 

This is a suitable place for me to mention, 
that the German spoken in Pennsylvania and 
the neighbouring parts of New York and Virgi- 
nia, is very corrupt, being a compound of Ger- 
man, English and I know not what besides. Some 
idea may be formed of the corruption it has un- 
dergone, from a remark made by one with whom 
I was conversing, which was, that I spoke better 
German than he did. On smiling at his banter- 
ing, he said he was in earnest, for that natives 
of Germany all told the German Americans of 



334 THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE. 



their bad language, and that mine corresponded 
with that of the native Germans much more than 
his. Various as are the dialects in Germany, and 
bad as some of them are, judging by the most 
generally approved standards, perhaps the worst 
is less faulty than that in Pennsylvania. It seems 
to be what the author of Hudibras calls a Ba- 
bylonish dialect. I suspect that Adelung, with 
all his knowledge as a linguist, would be as puz- 
zled with it, as the people in Sir John Mande- 
ville's tale, when they heard the mingled voices 
which the thaw had freed from their icy fetters. 



CHAPTER XXIV. 



ORATORY. 



In America, as in all countries where popular 
government is established, oratory is much stu- 
died, it being one of the most powerful means 
of obtaining the favour of the public. The com- 
plaint of Milton, that since the decay of Roman 
eloquence, no revival has taken place, has been 
long since refuted. France and England have 
produced orators, of reputation scarcely inferior 
to that of Demosthenes or Cicero ; and America 
may justly be proud of her Patrick Henry, a man 
whose eloquence illuminated with a sudden glare 
like that of a meteor, so dazzling and terrific that 
inferior lights were obscured in the blaze. She 
likewise boasts of the names of Pinckney, Ames 
and a few others. But of her living orators, there 
is not, so far as my information reaches, a single 
name of transcendent merit. I heard some of the 
most distinguished lawyers in the United States, 
as well as several of the most active members of 
Congress ; but it was not my lot to hear a single 
speech which was overpowering. Perhaps the 



336 



ORATORY. 



best plan I can adopt to give a correct idea of 
American oratory, will be to mention what I ob- 
served on several public occasions. 

I was present at a meeting of the Debating 
Society of Boston, when a question was proposed 
for discussion on the policy of prohibiting usury. 
The first speaker was a short, jolly man, who seem- 
ed much more likely to please a dinner party by 
acting as their chairman, than to throw light on 
an abstract question. He began with diffidence, 
a good symptom - r but after blundering through 
his speech, bewildering himself and his auditory, 
he concluded with no more confidence than he 
manifested at the commencement. The second 
speaker was quite as obscure, though with rather 
more assurance. The third, with some appear- 
ance of method in the handling of his subject, and 
with the air of a man who is to bear down all 
opposition, floundered in the mud of his own 
spreading, till he had tired himself and blinded 
those about him. The chairman was about to put 
the question, when a gentleman suggested that 
if the debate were adjourned, some further light 
would be thrown on it at another meeting. Some 
one might have told him, that there had been 
" no light, but rather darkness visible. 55 The 
motion for adjournment was carried, and the 



ORATORY. 



337 



meeting dispersed, having as I thought, shown a 
most exemplary patience. 

When I was at New York, a public meeting 
was held for the purpose of raising a subscription 
for the relief of the family of an officer who had 
lost his life in the suppression of piracy 01T Cuba. 
A friend of mine invited me to attend this meet- 
ing, telling me that he expected there would be 
a fine display of eloquence. Accordingly I went, 
but how great was my disappointment ! There 
was not a single speech worth the trouble of the 
walk, notwithstanding the admirable opportu- 
nity for awakening the sympathetic feelings, and 
so inciting to generosity. Probably not a person 
present gave a dollar, except those who had made 
up their minds to contribute before they entered 
the room. 

I have mentioned the anniversary of the Co- 
lonization Society. The principal orator on that 
occasion was animated, and so far agreeable ; 
but then his speech was so bestrewed with daz- 
zling metaphors and similes, so full of repeti- 
tions, so incoherent and contradictory, that the 
listening to it was as amusing and puzzling as 
the attempt to thread a labyrinth. The other 
speakers were not remarkable for any thing but 

z 



338 



ORATORY. 



mediocrity, except one young man who seemed 
to have the art of captivating, if an excess of dif- 
fidence had not kept his talents in check. 

I attended one or two other public meetings 
in which nothing particularly worth my noting 
occurred. One reason why public discussions in 
America are so little animated, is the omission of 
the auditory to testify their approval or dislike. 
There is no cheering, no hissing, no coughing. 
All passes off as quietly as the water of a brook 
with a smooth bottom. The Americans, I ima- 
gine, would consider it unpolite to make a ge- 
neral manifestation of their feelings ; but a more 
probable cause of their quietness, is the Dutch- 
Jike apathy which they feel, or at least assume, 
in their general deportment. 

Of their public lecturers I heard only three. 
The first was a young man who delivered a lec- 
ture on mnemonics at Ovid in New York. His 
voice was good, his tones were natural, and his 
illustrations were familiar; but he evidently was 
unacquainted with the principles of the science, 
and therefore it is not to be wondered at, that in 
attempting to explain them, he bewildered him- 
self, though the mechanical part he understood 
well, and made familiar to his hearers. He was not 



ORATORY. 



339 



generous enough to make any allusion to Von 
Feinagle, the author of his system, nor to the im- 
provers of it in England ; nor did he point out 
in what its superiority to Grey's Memoria Tech- 
nica consisted. 

The next lecture that I heard was on military 
tactics, delivered at Boston by a gentleman who 
is at the head of a MHfiry academy in Vermont. 
His voice was rather harsh, and his tones were 
monotonous ; and what was a still worse fault, 
his manner Of expressing himself was cold and 
repulsive, almost sepulchral. But then his mode 
of illustration was so clear, his language so sim- 
ple and perspicuous, and his account of a battle 
so graphical, that he made one fancy that gene- 
ralship was an art easily attained. In comment- 
ing on the battle of Waterloo, and the merits of 
the Duke of Wellington, he made several refer- 
ences to a book, which I knew from the title, to 
be the work of some Grub-street compiler ; but 
perhaps it might answer his purpose as well as a 
standard authority. He took, I believe, several 
of his opinions from O'Meara's Voice from St« 
Helena, though he made no mention of it. Pro- 
bably every individual present was gratified, if 
not delighted, with the lecture. 

z 2 



340 ORATORY. 

The last lecture that I heard was on chemist- 
ry. The lecturer bears the character of being 
an eminently scientific man, and has I believe a 
professorship in the college at Baltimore, where 
the lecture was delivered. It is a pity however, 
that his delivery is so bad, as to make one sup- 
pose that he felt no interest in the subject. He 
seemed with all his knowledge, to be destitute 
of almost every requisite for public speaking. 
For myself, I fell asleep after an ineffectual strug- 
gle to keep my attention fixed on him. On rous- 
ing up and looking around, I saw two or three 
others who seemed very quietly taking naps. 
Some were stretched at length on the benches. 
It was a great relief to me when he brought his 
lecture to a conclusion, and I resolved never to 
lose another hour in listening to him. 

I cannot speak in very high terms of the pul- 
pit eloquence of the Americans. My curiosity 
led me to hear a sermon from a very celebrated 
itinerant preacher, who wears his beard in affecta- 
tion of primitive simplicity, hoping perhaps to 
raise an opinion of his having superior sanctity. 
I had heard so much said in praise of him, that my 
expectations were considerable. He has the me- 
rit of fluency and energy, but very little besides. 



ORATORY. 



341 



His discourse was composed of a number of in- 
coherent paragraphs of reasoning and exhorta- 
tion, remarkable however for their good sense 
and practical value. It might be compared to a 
kitchen garden abounding with nutriment but 
with little to please the fancy, and more likely 
to be valued by a poor man than a rich one. I 
also heard a popular preacher in New York of 
the Presbyterian Church, whose oratorical talents 
consisted in a strong, clear voice, and earnest- 
ness of manner, but who could be ranked only 
in the second or third rate class of orators. A 
sermon which I heard delivered at Philadelphia 
by the Bishop of the Eastern Diocese fell as 
cold on the mind (for it made no appeals to the 
heart) as a shower of snow on the ground. 
Some other preachers whom I heard, had the 
drawling tone of a town crier. The rest might 
be placed with the moderately good. 

The eloquence of the American bar is de- 
cidedly different to that of the English bar, be- 
ing more diffuse. The first court I attended, was 
the Supreme court of Massachusetts held at Bos- 
ton, where though I entered several times, I 
heard nothing very striking. The charges of the 
Judge were deficient in explicitness, and his man- 
ner was undignified. 



342 



ORATORY. 



In one of the courts in New York, I heard 
some emphatic speaking. I may say the same 
of the Supreme Court of Virginia. But in both 
these courts, the counsellors appeared to me to 
be lavish of words, thus weakening instead of 
strengthening the impression first produced. I 
have seen a remark in some American publica- 
tion, that it is customary in the United States, 
to judge of the excellence of a speech by its 
length. If such be the fact, the diffuseness of 
the lawyers is accounted for. But to whatever 
length it may be necessary to go in addressing 
a jury, I should think that in arguing a point 
before judges, it would be only proper policy to 
be as concise as circumstances admit. Yet in the 
Supreme Court of the United States, which was 
sitting at Washington when I was there, I ob- 
served that the counsellors in moving for new 
trials, adopted the same discursive style that they 
use to juries. One whom I heard there is a Bos- 
tonian of distinction in his profession. He has 
very conspicuously the eloquence of composi- 
tion, his diction being chastely fervid, his 
thoughts brilliant, and his periods elegantly 
turned ; yet his speeches produce little effect 
from the inanimate, heartless manner in which 
they are delivered. Seldom have I witnessed such 
a contrast of powerful language with powerless 



ORATORY. 



343 



oratory as in him. His action is neither grace- 
ful nor appropriate, his tones are monotonous, 
and his eye is seldom directed to the persons he 
addresses. If it were not therefore for the rich- 
ness of his language and the strength of his ar- 
guments, his speeches would have the almost pe- 
trifying effect of the glance of the Gorgons. 
The eloquence of the Attorney General of the 
United States is of a different kind. That learned 
gentleman, who is I believe a Virginian, gives 
play to his imagination, till it bubbles and froths, 
and in its exuberance overflows and drowns what 
it should embellish. His altisonant periods have 
the effect of drawing the attention from the sub- 
ject to the orator, whose attitudes lead to the sup- 
position that he thinks too much of himself; but 
to do him justice, he has the soul of an orator 
who wishes to rule and subject the passions of 
others. He is dignified in deportment and has 
voice and countenance agreeable. 

The eloquence of the legislative bodies in 
America, is not perhaps so open to objection as 
that of the bar. The orator who is addressing 
an assembly of a hundred men, feels himself, 
when he has sufficient confidence not to be daunt- 
ed by their gaze, supported by their presence and 
necessitated to exert his energies. He feels a 



ORATORY. 



sort of awe, which impels him to rush forward 
like the soldier in an engagement, lest by hesi- 
tation he should expose his weakness. This im- 
petus assists his utterance ; and instead of check- 
ing his imagination as might be supposed, or 
chilling his passions, or confounding his argu- 
ments, it has the effect quite opposite, of call- 
ing the faculties into full exertion, while at the 
same time it so regulates them as to prevent ex- 
travagance or trifling. Accordingly, first-rate 
orators succeed better in large assemblies than 
in small. The listening crowd is to them what 
drums and trumpets are to the war horse. Re- 
move the exciting cause, and both one and the 
other become calm as the sea when the winds 
are hushed. It may be said, that these remarks 
are as applicable to forensic as to senatorial elo- 
quence, the spectators in a court of justice hav- 
ing precisely the same effect on the orator, as the 
numbers in a legislative body. But it must be 
considered, that the lawyer who is addressing a 
jury, knows that he has nothing to do with the 
surrounding spectators on ordinary occasions ; 
and therefore, except on questions of great pub- 
lic interest, when his reputation is at stake, and 
a large party is keenly waiting the issue of the 
verdict, we seldom hear impassioned, overwhelm- 
ing speeches at the bar. He has to carry con- 



ORATORY. 



345 



viction to twelve ; the legislator to a multitude, 
of whom many from party spirit are reluctant to 
yield. If there be any truth in these remarks, 
which have been made after considerable obser- 
vation and reflection, the reason why the elo- 
quence in the American legislature is less faulty 
than that at the bar, becomes apparent. I heard 
several speeches in the Senate as well as in the 
House of Representatives, characterised by force, 
clearness and ingenuity ; and though it was not 
my lot to hear one so overwhelming as to bear 
down and render hopeless all attempts at opposi- 
tion, by making the listener believe that it was 
meritorious to surrender feeling and judgment 
to the enchanter; yet I heard enough to convince 
me, that in case of any impending danger, there 
would not be wanting those w T ho could guide 
and sway public opinion. I believe indeed, that 
in the discussion of general questions, however 
abstract or difficult, the House of Representa- 
tives is at least equal to the House of Commons. 

The most powerful speech I heard any where 
in the country, was in the State legislature of 
Pennsylvania. A motion had been made in the 
lower house to appropriate a sum of money for 
printing the laws, when a member rose in oppo- 
sition to it. He was dressed so shabbily, and had 



ORATORY. 



such a mass of uncombed hair on his head, that 
I should have guessed him to be an ostler or some 
such person, if I had met him in the street. But 
he poured forth with a volubility and energy that 
effectually aroused the sleepy, and rivetted the 
attention of the careless. His address had such 
an effect, that the opposite party was glad to 
compromise the matter out of doors. 

Whether it be that the Americans are deficient 
in wit and humour, or that they only suppress 
the indulgence of them in public, I witnessed no 
displays of either, though many opportunities oc- 
curred where they might have been advantage- 
ously employed. 

If I were asked to give in a few words my opi- 
nion of American oratory taken in the general, 
1 should say, that it is rambling and diffuse, but 
simple and perspicuous ; deficient in energy and 
pathos, but lively and argumentative ; and better 
adapted to convince the gainsayer than to arouse 
the indifferent. 

Having mentioned the deficiency in energy 
and pathos, I wish to add a few words on what 
appear to me to be the causes of it. The first 
then is I think the neglect of prosody. The ele- 



OKATORY. 



34 r / 



mentary rules of that part of grammar, including 
those of versification, are probably taught in the 
schools ; but I am almost certain, though not 
from any information I received, that the higher 
branches have, in a general way, no attention 
whatever paid to them. I infer this, not only 
from the prevalent monotony of public speakers, 
but from the manner of reading in the domestic 
circle. I did not hear a single reader who did 
full justice to the author whose work he was read- 
ing, except perhaps in those passages requiring 
no vocal inflection. There seems in fact to be 
a notion in America, that if the pauses are cor- 
rectly made, and the emphases duly marked, the 
perfection of reading is attained ; just as if the 
spirit of the author could be communicated to 
the hearer by cold correctness. The best reader 
that I heard was a young lady at New York, who 
read prose with propriety and elegance, but failed 
in verse ; the failure in the latter being occasion- 
ed by her attending to the sense in disregard of 
the metre. 

The next cause of the alleged deficiency, I 
suppose to be the slowness of utterance ; a fault 
very general, but nearly as fatal to eloquence as 
over fulness of pronunciation, which is the fault 
of so many English orators, The orator whose 



348 





ORATORY. 



words follow each other like the ticking of a 
clock, must necessarily fail in keeping the atten- 
tion properly fixed. I have constantly noticed, 
that those orators whose utterrance is rapid but 
distinct, are the most powerful. 

The last cause to which I think it needful to 
refer, is to that apathy which is so great an in- 
gredient in the national character. Without fer- 
vour, it is impossible for an orator to thrill and 
hold captive his hearers. By elegance of diction 
and a melodious voice he may delight and en- 
chant; but he cannot gain that ascendancy which 
is the aim and object of the first-rate orator, with- 
out those 

' e Thoughts that breathe and words that burn," 

which never flow spontaneously from one of cold 
feelings. 



*b90lJOft yfi{Ii5jf8fI03 'IVfed 'I.' £>9Xift /il^IO'r < > 

CHAPTER XXV. 

LITERATURE. 

The literature of England is that of America. 
Our popular and standard works are reprinted, 
and circulated from Maine to Georgia, from New 
Jersey to Illinois. At a solitary log-house stand- 
ing in the midst of the native forest, and remote 
from town or village, I found books which may 
be seen on the toilette of London ladies. The 
poetry of Scott, Byron and Southey is as fami- 
liar to the Americans as to us, and the Waver- 
ley novels are devoured with equal avidity. The 
Edinburgh and Quarterly Reviews, and several 
of our Magazines are regularly reprinted. Of 
native authors they have comparatively few, a 
circumstance by no means discreditable to them, 
as it is the almost necessary result of their situa- 
tion. Yet they were highly nettled and indig- 
nant, when a question was tauntingly put some 
years ago in the Edinburgh Review, " Who reads 
an American book ? 99 The fact was, that they 
were sensible that from the paucity of their au- 
thors, the question was one not to be so easily 
answered as such a one as this, Has America 



350 



LITERATURE. 



ever produced a great man ? If this question 
had been put, it would have excited only a smile. 
Hence they may perceive, that so long as they 
manifest anger at English prejudices and sar- 
casms, it will not unreasonably be concluded that 
they are not ill-founded. Would Julius Caesar 
or Alexander the Great have been offended, if 
they had been represented as cowards? Or 
would their own Washington have been offend- 
ed, if he had been stigmatised as the enemy of 
his country ? If then the taunting question of 
the Reviewers excited wrath in the Americans, 
we may be sure it was owing to their inability 
to answer it, or at least to their consciousness of 
its being a question naturally arising from the 
state of their literature. 

Since that question was put, Washington Ir- 
ving has redeemed the character of his country ; 
though in my opinion, the want of native lite- 
rature is no disgrace to them since they are am- 
ply supplied from abroad. When a country is 
furnished with an article, what signifies it whe- 
ther it be of native growth or of foreign import- 
ation ? Before however proceeding to offer any 
remarks on his writings or those of other authors 
of note, let me advert to the miscellaneous 
pamphlets constantly issuing from the press. I 



LITERATURE. 



351 



was surprised on inspecting a number of these, 
to find that they were written so carelessly and 
slovenly, as to appear like the productions of a 
schoolboy unskilled in grammar. The Annual 
Report of one of the New York charity schools, 
was the most faulty composition I almost ever 
saw. Some violation of syntax was perceptible 
in nearly every sentence, certainly in every para- 
graph. It is likely that the framers of that Re- 
port had had only a commercial education, and 
had never bestowed much time in reading any 
books besides their bibles and ledgers ; as such, 
the errors may be pardoned. But what defence 
can be offered for the numerous errors in the pub- 
lications of the Philadelphian Society for pro- 
moting Agriculture ? a society which enrols on 
its list of members several men of literary repu- 
tation. These errors might in many cases pass 
unobserved, if it were not for the occasional at- 
tempt at fine writing ; for where that is conspi- 
cuous we begin to criticise. I was much amused 
at an attempt of this sort in one of the pamphlets 
issued by the Colonization Society, which as a 
specimen I here insert, assuring the reader that 
it is only one instance out of many. " Africa/' 
says the writer, " has been the cradle of a race 
of men, having characteristics sufficiently bold 
to distinguish them from every other people. 



352 



LITERATURE. 



Africa, which has been their cradle, is a store- 
house furnished with rich and various supplies to 
nurture them to manhood, and when the voice 
of nature shall pronounce their exit, will afford 
a sepulchre for the slumber of their ashes ! " 
Till I read this, I had never let in the idea, that 
there was any country on the earth so filled with 
corpses, as to have no vacant space for a new 
grave, But, as the adage is, we live and learn. 
A still more amusing passage of a similar stamp, 
may be seen in a memoir of Fulton of steam- 
boat memory, read before a literary society in 
New York. The author, if I remember rightly, 
(for I have not the book by me) is anticipating 
the future glory of his country ; and whenever 
an American gives the reins to his imagination 
on that subject he is like a wild animal, pursuing 
the chase so eagerly that he sees neither posts 
nor pitfalls. 

The Americans often make a remark when 
speaking of their literature, which appears to me 
to be perfectly preposterous. It is, that Milton, 
Locke, Swift, and the whole host of authors an- 
terior to the Independence are their countrymen. 
We might with as great propriety claim Frank- 
lin and Washington as our countrymen. They 
say that the separation from the mother country 



LITERATURE. 



353 



was in government and laws, but not in litera- 
ture ; and that as they speak our language, they 
have a right to consider themselves as participa- 
tors in the honour which those writers conferred 
on their native land. But surely this claim is 
one that no other people would have set up, for 
it confounds all the established notions attached 
to what we call our country. The population 
of America is a compound race from English, 
French, Dutch, German, Spanish and African 
stocks ; and though the English language is by 
far the most general, yet there are districts 
where other languages are exclusively spoken. 
In the midland parts of Pennsylvania, German 
is spoken ; in New York, Dutch ; in Louisiana, 
French ; and in Florida, Spanish. Are the per- 
sons who speak these different languages to 
claim our authors for their countrymen? Yet 
they are Americans as well as those who speak 
English. In short, it seems wonderful that the 
claim producing these remarks, should ever have 
been set up. 

Though the number of native authors whose 
works are destined to rank as standard classics 
is small, there is no deficiency of pamphleteers 
and authors of the common sort, whose writings 
are calculated to serve a temporary purpose. Of 

A A 



354 



LITERATURE. 



periodical literary journals, they have but one of 
conspicuous excellence. This is the North Ame- 
rican Review, conducted on the plan of the Edin- 
burgh and Quarterly Reviews, and justly enti- 
tled to rank side by side with them ; for though 
trumpery articles have occasionally appeared in 
it, its general character is highly respectable. 
Its chief defect is want of courage in attacking 
the faults or follies of the country. Like those 
preachers 

f Who never mention Hell to ears polite," 

the writers in it seem afraid of giving offence by 
plain speaking. They will 

" Just hint a fault, and hesitate dislike." 

No doubt this caution has been occasioned by 
the knowledge of the impatience of their coun- 
trymen at satire on themselves ; but it has the 
effect of giving insipidity to the work. An in- 
fusion of the essence of Swift or Juvenal would 
make the mixture, like a dish seasoned with 
spices, excite the palate, and promote a thirst 
for knowledge. Several attempts at wit have 
been made in the North American ; but like 
bladders blown by children with soap and water, 
they have been showy but empty. The writers 
have produced nothing in this way, equal to 
some of the half earnest, half jocular pieces in 
Blackwood's Magazine. On the other hand, they 



LITERATURE. 



355 



have not fallen into the flippant petulance so ob- 
servable in the early numbers of the Edinburgh 
lleview, nor into the arrogant acerbity so often 
conspicuous in the Quarterly. I believe that no 
work of the kind can produce finer examples of 
eloquent composition, than the North American 
Review. Some of these remain on my mind still 
giving delight, as the music of a well tuned in- 
strument continues to vibrate on the ear after 
the sound has ceased. If I had read them in 
the heyday of youth, when fancy was lively and 
feelings were keen, I should have been ready to 
dance for joy, and class myself with the fairies 
of the olden time revelling in the moonshine of 
imagination. Now that I am a little sobered, I 
find myself too much of earthly mould to realize 
such flights of fancy, yet when reading some of 
the papers of the North American, I can recal 
the days that are gone, and partially resign my- 
self to the witchery which can no longer deceive 
me. This journal has for its editor, a man of 
eminent repute as a scholar ; a circumstance 
which I mention, because he has set an example 
which it would be well for other journals to fol- 
low. In quoting from books in French and other 
foreign languages, a translation is given instead 
of the original. French and Latin are supposed 
to be so generally understood in England, as to 

A A 2 



356 



LITERATURE. 



render a translation unnecessary ; but I believe 
that at least half, and probably three quarters of 
the readers of our reviews, are unacquainted with 
either. The same I doubt not is the case in 
America. I think therefore that the editor 
of the North American Review, has acted with 
singular propriety in the plan he has adopted. 
If the original be inserted it should be in a note at 
the foot of a page, that being one of the few cases 
where a note is excusable. Another particular 
which I noticed in the Review, is the absence 
of French phrases. The author who made 
the practice fashionable of interlarding English 
books with French phrases was Lord Chester- 
field ; a man to whom we ought to pay little re- 
gard as a writer of language, whatever respect 
may be due to his opinion on points of behavi- 
our. Since his time, the practice has been gain- 
ing ground, till at last, Lady Morgan has .had 
the folly to introduce them so frequently, as to 
give her book the appearance of being written 
by a Frenchman, who understood English so im- 
perfectly as to be obliged to resort to his native 
language. I myself while engaged in this work 
have been several times about to make use of a 
French phrase ; but considering that our lan- 
guage is adequate to the expression of all our 
ideas, I have carefully abstained. 



LITERATURE. 



357 



Of works describing the resources and natural 
advantages of the country, there are several of 
considerable value ; but it would be foreign to 
my purpose to speak of them particularly. Jef- 
ferson's Notes on Virginia deserves however 
some notice from the celebrity of the author. 
Though in many respects inapplicable to the 
present condition of Virginia, it is a book which 
may be read with pleasure and advantage. His 
enthusiasm leads him to describe things with 
too much warmth, but that is I think an error on 
the right side. His prejudice against England 
I can less excuse, especially as he writes in some 
respects as a philosopher. His disbelief of the 
Mosaic account of the creation is plainly avowed; 
but however some may regret this, they will 
surely admit that openness and sincerity are pre- 
ferable to the covert infidelity of Gibbon in his 
attempt to cause distrust of Christianity. If the 
work did not add much to Jefferson's literary 
reputation, it at least exhibited him as a man of 
enquiring mind and of reflection. Exclusive of 
the bigotry and prejudice conspicuous in it, the 
performance is creditable to him. 

It is remarkable that no historian has yet 
arisen, to do full justice to the revolutionary his- 
tory of America. There are compilations and 



S5S 



LITERATURE. 



annals in abundance; but no history, where with- 
out the tediousness of military detail, we may 
find a succinct and spirited account of the differ- 
ent engagements, of the conflicts of the different 
political parties amongst the natives, and a phi- 
losophical estimate of the causes and conse- 
quences of the whole. Such a work is yet a de- 
sideratum. Marshall's Life of Washington is 
too cumbersome. Ramsay's History is incom- 
plete. Two or three volumes have lately ap- 
peared, which are part of a work entitled, Bio- 
graphy of the Signers of the Declaration of In- 
dependence. The author's choice was hardly a 
judicious one. The names of most of those who 
signed the Declaration, will be as little familiar 
to posterity, as the names of the barons who ex- 
torted Magna Charta from the tyrant John. 
The attempt to place them on a pedestal in the 
temple of fame, will prove as unsuccessful as 
that of the suitors to bend the bow of Ulysses. 
The revolutionary history might doubtless be 
combined with the biography of a few public 
characters, so as to be made very interesting, 
as the mixture of domestic scenes with historical 
events gives us a picture of the times particularly 
pleasing. But then the characters chosen, should 
be such as are really eminent. Macdiarmid, in 
his Lives of British Statesmen, especially in that 



LITERATURE. 



359 



of Sir Thomas More, has exhibited the best sam- 
ples of this kind of writing that I am acquaint- 
ed with. If Sanderson, the author of the work 
now under consideration, had taken him for a 
model, he might have produced a work honour- 
able to himself and valuable to his country. But 
he has evidently been an imitator of Gibbon, a 
fatal mistake in a biographer. The lofty lan- 
guage and rotund periods of Gibbon, produce 
satiety to the mind like honey to the palate, 
Faulty however, and tiresome as his style is, it 
is pardoned for the plenitude of his information 
and the majesty of his theme ; but nothing but 
great want of judgment and of taste, would 
have led any one to relate biography in a similar 
style. The Life of Franklin written by himself 
exceedingly interests us. We enter into his feel- 
ings of satisfaction on finding his business pros- 
perous ; we delight to witness the development 
of his faculties ; we take a lively concern in the 
issue of his various schemes. But how different 
are our sensations in reading his Life by Sander- 
son! The simplicity which charmed us has fled, 
and we have instead pompous inanity. He will 
never be the Plutarch of his country. But if he 
be incompetent to biography, it is only from a 
misapplication of his talents ; for it is plain from 
his historical introduction, written on the plan 



360 



LITERATURE. 



adopted by Dr. Robertson in the first book of 
the History of America, that he is capable of 
producing a work of merit. Let him" peruse the 
works of Dr. Gillies, or any other of Gibbon's 
imitators, and then turn to the pages of Hume 
or Voltaire, and he may soon become sensible of 
the cause of his failure. An octavo volume was 
published at Boston during my stay in America, 
containing a personal narrative of several im- 
portant events in the revolutionary war. A copy 
of it falling into the hands of the editor of the 
New York Albion newspaper, I wrote at his re- 
quest a short review of it for insertion in that 
journal. I have forgotten both the author's name 
and the title of the book ; but I mention it for 
the purpose of stating, that though it contains 
some very interesting particulars, its literary me- 
rits are not such as to reflect honour on the coun- 
try. It may be placed on a level with Carleton's 
Memoirs, or the narratives of some of our offi- 
cers of the peninsular campaign. In my review 
of it, I bestowed as much praise as I could con- 
sistently with my sense of justice. The Me- 
moirs of a Life chiefly passed in Pennsylvania 
may serve to amuse an idle hour, but the book 
seems little adapted to maintain a permanent 
standing in our libraries. Some of the parti- 
culars are too trifling for publication, and the 



LITERATURE. 



361 



style is not sufficiently polished. Tudor, in his 
Life of Otis seems to have failed as egregiously 
as Sanderson, though from different causes. 
Judge Johnson, in his Life of Greene, has also 
failed. These works may be useful to the future 
historian, but who would have patience to go 
through them ? Dr. Johnson has well observed 
that tediousness propagates itself. Wirt's Life of 
Patrick Henry is of a higher stamp ; but in draw- 
ing his hero's character, he has overcharged the 
colouring so much, that the different features ap- 
pear distorted. These works confirm the remark 
I before made, that the revolutionary history has 
not yet had full justice done it. 

Of books, the result of foreign travel, the Ame- 
ricans have fewer than we might suppose, when 
we consider that such of their young men as tra- 
vel for improvement, visit almost every country 
in Europe. Now and then, some one makes an 
exploratory journey into Africa or Asia. Yet 
how little have they contributed to cosmography ! 
Even those works relative to their own continent, 
are generally so badly written, that few would 
read them besides those whose studies are direct- 
ed to the Indian character and history. Major 
Long's Expedition to the Rocky Mountains is 
narrated in a slovenly manner. I took it up, but 



S62 



LITERATURE. 



found that it was a work which would not suit 
me. When afterwards I saw a review of it in the 
North American, I expected to find either an 
analysis of it, or a selection of the more striking 
parts with appropriate remarks ; but I was dis- 
appointed. The article was meagre and unsatis- 
factory. If the editor will compare it with the 
correspondent one in the Quarterly Review, he 
will perceive the inferiority of his own. Hunter's 
Captivity among the Indians is an interesting 
work, though not very skilfully compiled. It is, 
I apprehend, the best account extant of the tribes 
amongst whom his lot was cast. This book is so 
evidently the workmanship of some other person 
than the professed author, that it should have 
been mentioned in the preface, and the third 
person used instead of the first. Manner's ac- 
count of the Tonga Islands was published in that 
manner by Dr. Martin, who set an example of 
narrative, illustrated by philosophical investiga- 
tion, which it would have been well for the Ame- 
rican editor to have followed. 

Amongst their books of travels in Europe, two 
or three deserve notice. Of Griscom's Year in 
Europe, I am scarcely competent to give an opi- 
nion, having seen only a few sheets of it during 
its passage through the press, which the author 



LITERATURE. 



363 



did me the honour to submit to my inspection 
and revisal. I saw enough however, to satisfy 
me of his candour and amiability. The style, 
though not so nicely polished as modern refine- 
ment requires, is flowing and animated. The 
principal fault of the work, is as it appeared to 
me, an unnecessary minuteness of detail, though 
that very minuteness is sometimes charming. Such 
minuteness respecting countries little known, 
would have been entitled to unqualified praise. 

Silliman's Tour in England is written with 
considerable elegance, though with too much of 
German prolixity. He relates and describes 
things accurately, but whatever is offensive or 
disagreeable is cast so much in the shade, that 
England appears more like a terrestrial paradise, 
than a country where good and evil are blend- 
ed ; thus deception is produced, though unde- 
signedly. Of an opposite character, is a work 
entitled, A Sketch of Old England by a New 
Englander. This book contains a collection of 
particulars illustrative of the misery and degra- 
dation of England, and of the tyranny and wick- 
edness of her government. If the author's ob- 
ject had been to effect a reformation in the coun- 
try, it would have been a commendable one, 
though the means he has used are evidently in- 



364 



LITERATURE. 



adequate to the end ; but he has told his readers 
that his object in this publication was to compel 
English writers to do justice to America ! The 
work is compiled in such a snarling, moody man- 
ner, as to raise a smile at the author's galled feel- 
ings. When he regains Ms good humour, he will 
probably regret that he ever gave it publicity. 
Should he come in the spirit of kindness to tell us 
of our faults, and try to shame us out of them, we 
shall receive him as a valuable auxiliary. At pre- 
sent, his work is likely to be as little operative, 
as the darts of Belzebub on the shield of Faith. 
Walsh's Appeal from the Judgment of Great Bri- 
tain respecting the United States, is a work writ- 
ten in a similar spirit. It displays great industry j 
but there is far less talent shown in it, than a 
perusal of the author's pamphlet on the French 
government might lead one to expect to find in 
it. The little effect it produced in England is 
well known. Its tendency at home was very 
different to what I would charitably hope was 
Walsh's design ; for instead of allaying the ran- 
cour of his countrymen against the land of their 
forefathers, it rather increased it. The great 
mistake into which both he and the preceding 
author fell, was in arguing on false premises. 
They assume, in consequence of the illiberal 
tone of some English writers, that the English 



LITERATURE. 



people at large were prejudiced against America ; 
though a little enquiry from recent American 
tourists in England, might have removed this 
false notion. The book added nothing to Walsh's 
reputation, either as a literary character or as a 
calm philosopher, and remains a proof of the 
folly and impropriety of bringing a controversial 
spirit into controversy, except where the au- 
thor's aim is victory at the sacrifice of truth. 

Somerville's Letters from Paris should be read 
by those American democrats, who have enter- 
tained the extravagant opinion that Napoleon 
was the friend of liberty. He was their favour- 
ite, and almost their idol because he overturned 
several of the old governments of Europe ; 
whereas, they should have suspended their ad- 
miration, till he had established a system of li- 
berty. That he might have done so, will scarce- 
ly be disputed : that he knew how to do it, is 
evident from his conversations at St. Helena. 
Yet, as this work proves, he was a tyrant. He 
to be sure declared, that it was his intention to 
yield to the public desire at a future time ; but 
who is to pay regard to the declarations of a man 
who has lost power, when his whole career when 
in power belies them ? Somerville has weighed 
the virtues and vices of his government in an 



S6(i 



LITERATURE. 



apparently dispassionate manner, and has pro- 
claimed that the latter preponderated. The 
style of this work is too elaborate ; at least, it 
bears too much the symptoms of labour. The 
metaphors are sometimes strained. It has how- 
ever a fulness and richness which may excuse 
minor faults. It is written in a philosophical 
spirit like Everett's Europe, which is a work of 
merit. The author may draw some hasty conclu- 
sions, but his reasonings deserve to be weighed 
by statesmen. His style is flowing and elegant. 

I shall offer no remarks on the works of Ame- 
rican novelists, not being addicted to novel read- 
ing ; but it is proper for me to state, that one of 
them has given to the public, works which have 
been admired on both sides of the Atlantic, be- 
ing considered nearly equal in excellence to 
those of the author of Waverley, who is his pro- 
totype. It should however be borne in mind, 
that he who traverses fairy land iri the footsteps 
of another, is less deserving of praise, than he 
who strikes into an untrodden path. Perhaps it 
may be said with some truth, that the Ameri- 
cans generally, have been less adventurous than 
sequacious. 



Various volumes of memoirs of missionaries 



LITERATURE. 



367 



have been given to the public, one or two of 
which I inspected. They seemed to me to be 
compiled with little taste or judgment. Setting 
aside their literary defects, they may be esteem- 
ed as incentives to piety, just as some flowers 
are valued for their fragrance rather than their 
beauty. 

A volume of essays under the title of the Old 
Bachelor, which was published with the laudable 
view of infusing a literary taste amongst the Vir- 
ginians, and of inciting their youth to an emu- 
lation of the best models, is a book containing 
some very elegant passages. Few periodical es- 
sayists since the days of Addison, have proved 
themselves more capable of interesting the feel- 
ings and rousing the imagination than the author 
of the Old Bachelor. 

The British Spy contains a very curious ac- 
count of a blind preacher, written with much art 
and ingenuity, though unluckily terminated by 
bathos. The other parts of the volume are but 
moderate. Another book of a character some- 
what similar, though certainly superior, entitled 
Letters from the South, is a good companion to 
the Spy, though the attempts at wit are too fre- 
quent. Much as these two have been admired 



368 



LITERATURE* 



in America, I think they are little likely to be 
popular in England. 

Griscom's Discourse on Character and Edu- 
cation is an eloquent composition. The diction, 
though rather too lofty in one or two paragraphs 
to please my taste, is not overstrained. The 
Discourse cannot fail to please those who take a 
proper interest in the spread of knowledge and 
virtue. In adverting to foreign countries, the 
author uses language becoming a sensible, liberal- 
minded man. His countrymen may profit by 
the example he has given them. 

Taylor's Enquiry is a work which has been so 
highly commended, that it possesses, I conclude, 
extraordinary merit; but it is composed in a 
style so unlike that of conversation, that I had 
not patience to read much of it, though I should 
have been glad to learn from it the true princi- 
ples of the American government. I can compare 
the style to no other than that of Bentham, a 
style so cramp and involved, so zigzag and per- 
plexing, that it has been pronounced to be nei- 
ther English nor any other language. How fool- 
ish is it to adopt such a one ! Bentham's works 
are read and admired in Dupont's French trans- 
lation, appearing as much more beautiful than 



LITERATURE. 369 

the original as papilionaceous insects than the 
grubs from which they emanate. Taylor's work 
will, I believe, attract little public attention, un- 
less it undergo a similar metamorphosis. 

Raymond's Elements of Political Economy is 
a valuable work. In examining those principles 
laid down by Adam Smith from which he dis- 
sents, he manifests very considerable acumen, 
causing respect for his ingenuity even where he 
fails to convince. The language is in some parts 
perhaps rather too dogmatical for a philosophical 
treatise, and in others disfigured by needless re- 
petition, but as the style is generally clear and 
cogent, minor errors may be pardoned. It would 
be foreign to my plan to comment on any of 
Raymond's premises or deductions, though I 
should like very well to do so ; I shall therefore 
briefly remark, that his book evinces patient 
thought and investigation, that his principles 
though not always convincing are plausible, and 
that some of them appear to be original. 

As it is not my intention to comment on the 
works of deceased Americans which are well 
known and appreciated in England, and which 

have taken a stand in most libraries, I shall only 

naif ImHumd wwn Am.tm> m vrnwotftyn t aotto? 



870 



LITERATURE. 



add some remarks on American poetry and the 
writings of Washington Irving. 

America boasts of some of her poets, and it 
will I suppose be attributed to English preju- 
dice, when it is known that none of them are 
popular on this side the Atlantic : yet there are 
many amongst us who would willingly render 
praise to transatlantic genius, and hail its tri- 
umphs with sincere satisfaction. Indeed it may 
be said of Englishmen generally, that they are 
very favourably disposed to America and her 
citizens. The reason therefore, why American 
poetry has obtained so little notice is, because 
so little of it is above mediocrity. Barlow's Co- 
lumbiad is left, even at home, to gather dust and 
cobwebs like Sir Richard Blackmore's epics and 
Louis Buonaparte's Charlemagne. The person 
who undertakes to read it through, may find 
beauties in it, as Bunyan's pilgrim did in the 
land of Beulah, and yet like the pilgrim, be over- 
powered by its papaverous influence. Splendid 
passages may be found in Prior's Solomon or 
Lucan's Pharsalia ; yet who cares about either 
of them ? 

Pierrepont's Airs of Palestine has sweetness 



LITERATURE. 



S71 



and melody, but the style is too palpably an imi- 
tation of Campbell's ; a style which, whatever 
may be its beauties, it is with the exception of 
Darwin's, perhaps the most dangerous to attempt 
to emulate of any in English poetry. Hilhouse's 
Judgment has passages which remind one of 
Blair's Grave and Porteus's Death. It seems 
worthy to rank with them in public estimation. 
When w T e consider that Young, whose talents 
seem to have fitted him for solemn themes, fail- 
ed in his Last Day to describe the judgment in 
an impressive manner, we must give additional 
credit to Hilhouse for his success. His poem is 
written in blank verse, the comparative facility 
of which has led so many poets into rhapsodies 
and tuneless periods. The author of the poem 
entitled The Aborigines of America, has by 
adopting it, been led into tediousness. Like 
Thomson's Liberty, it appears to be the produc- 
tion of a man capable of something better. 

The Poems of Percival have passages of very 
considerable beauty, but the versification is sel- 
dom sufficiently exact. In those written in blank 
verse, the imitation of the style of Southey is too 
conspicuous, which, however pleasing, is by no 
means the best model for a young poet. The 
pieces in irregular rhyme like Milton's Lycidas, 

BB 2 



37% 



LITERATURE. 



as well as the poem in the Spenserian stanza en- 
titled Prometheus, too often remind the reader of 
Lord Byron, though I will not assert that Per- 
cival imitated his peculiar manner ; yet his fre- 
quent reference to his own secret feelings might 
well induce the suspicion. Notwithstanding the 
very considerable merits of some of Percival's 
poems, I do not think that his name is likely to 
be familiar to posterity, unless he produce some- 
thing still better than he has hitherto offered to 
the public. As he is but a young man, perhaps 
he may yet adorn our literature with flowers of 
lasting fragrance, and enrich it with fruits grate- 
ful to the palate. His spring has exhibited buds 
of no mean promise : may his autumn be answer- 
ably rich. Pauling's Backwoodsman has in it 
something delightfully original, but like the sub- 
ject, wants more polish before it is adapted for 
the drawing-room. The ornamental parts are 
rather too gaudy for the eye of taste. 

Scott and Byron have their imitators in Ame- 
rica ; but who regards the works of imitators 
when he can have those of their originals ? If it 
be thought that the American poets have not 
had their meed of praise from the English pub- 
lic, let it be remembered that we live in an age 
fertile of poetic genius beyond all precedent ; and 



LITERATURE. 



373 



that two or three names engross the public fame, 

" While Milton, Dryden, Pope, alike forgot, 
Resign their hallowed bays to Walter Scott." 

Besides, there is a great deal of fashion in the 
estimation of literary productions, as well as in 
the shape of a bonnet or coat. I cannot but 
think that it is the influence of fashion which 
has given such celebrity to Washington Irving, 
with whose writings I must wind up this imper- 
fect survey of American literature. 

His earliest publication was I believe Salma- 
gundi, a series of essays in the manner of Gold- 
smith's, and little, if at all, inferior to them. The 
next was, I suppose, Knickerbocker, much ad- 
mired by many for its sly humour, but which al- 
ways appeared to me to be too forced to be na- 
tural. But it was the Sketch Book, and more 
recently Bracebridge Hall, which established his 
fame. Of these therefore I shall more particu- 
larly speak. He has the merit of a flowing, 
mellifluous style, produced by the collocation of 
the words in so artful a manner, as to conceal 
the labour which has been bestowed. It is clear, 
but not harsh ; full, but not redundant. His de- 
scriptions have much beauty in their minuteness, 
reminding one of some of the finest passages in 



374 



LITERATURE. 



Gessner's Idylls, and in their richness of the 
masterly delineations of BufFon. His sentiments 
generally exhibit him as the friend of whatever 
tends to good humour, peace and benevolence. 
If such be the merits of his writings, how, it may 
be said, can it be owing to fashion, that he has 
risen into celebrity ? I reply, that his merits are 
not of the common order, and that therefore he 
was entitled to celebrity, but not to that extraor- 
dinary degree which has been his lot. He has 
been represented as almost a faultless writer; 
yet it may be observed that his words, however 
beautifully arranged, are often ill chosen ; that 
his narratives are un skillfully told ; and that his 
humour, happy as it sometimes is, is often as mis- 
placed as roses in a garden by the side of pop- 
pies. If his famous tale of the Legend of Sleepy 
Hollow Jbe read with attention, it will be found 
to contain numerous faults of the kind I have 
mentioned. 

I will now endeavour to show in what way it 
is, that fashion has operated respecting his writ- 
ings. In the first place, his being an American 
was in his favour, public curiosity being excited 
to see a production of acknowledged merit, by 
one whose countrymen were supposed to have 
done marvellously little in the embellishment of 



LITERATURE. 



375 



our common literature. Novelty attracts atten- 
tion, and when any thing extraordinary is uni- 
ted to it, the attention is doubled. Hence it is, 
that when the poems of Bloomfield were an- 
nounced as the production of a plough-boy, and 
those of Barton as the production of a Quaker, 
curiosity was instantly on tiptoe, and praise was 
unduly lavished. Few persons have courage to 
deviate from generally received opinion; and as all 
might find something to admire in each of those 
poets, most were willing to return the echo, till 
nothing was heard but the sound of praise. Now 
though I readily admit, that Irving' s works are 
much above mediocrity, and that theirs are of only 
moderate excellence, yet as many persons seem- 
ed to think that the circumstance of an Ameri- 
can's writing prose of conspicuous elegance, was 
as anomalous as that of a ploughboy's or a Qua- 
ker's writing good verse, we may fairly attribute 
much of his reputation to this cause. Probably 
however, the periodical press was more effective 
than any thing else in blinding people to his de- 
fects. The Edinburgh Review had been taxed 
with unjust vituperation of American authors, 
and the editor seemed determined to shew that 
he had no hostile feeling to the country ; accor- 
dingly, he availed himself of his opportunity to 
praise Irving, to do it in such terms as should 



376 



LITERATURE. 



be perfectly satisfactory to his countrymen. The 
writer of the article in the Quarterly Review 
was almost bound to use recommendatory lan- 
guage, as the publisher of that Review was 
also the publisher of the Sketch Book ; and it 
may be supposed that he would not wish a cha- 
racter to be given of it, tending to check its cir- 
culation. From these combined causes, I con- 
ceive that the works of Washington Irving have 
been rated beyond their real value. After all, 
they are likely to maintain a permanence equal 
to that of our most admired essayists. 

America has not yet produced a single female 
author of any eminence. I do not think that this 
is a just subject of regret, seeing there are so few 
female authors whose works bear the impression 
of the softness and delicacy characteristic of their 
sex : and who would desire to see women adopt 
a masculine deportment or language ? There are 
numerous instances of women having superior 
understandings, and yet maintaining as strictly 
as any, all the charms of their proper character ; 
but it too often happens, that those who are said 
to possess masculine minds, are also conspicuous 
for other masculine qualities, and thus become 
uhamiable. A reference to the works of female 
writers, may soon satisfy any one, of the liabi* 



LITERATURE. 



377 



lity of women of superior understandings, to de- 
part from the feminine character. To say nothing 
of the French female writers in general, and of 
that most extraordinary of all modern writers 
Madame De Stael, how few are there of our own 
female writers, whose works are free from pass- 
ages indicative of masculine traits ! In the Let- 
ters of Anna Seward, what a constant attempt is 
there to display her logical talents, and court ap- 
plause for the justness of her reasonings. And 
what are we to think of Elizabeth Hamilton's sys- 
tem of Education, founded on the metaphysical 
subtleties of her countrymen Stewart and Reid ? 
Who could read her book without perceiving 
that she was one whom no man could easily love? 
The works of Hannah More are justly esteemed 
for their pious tendency ; but if the course of 
study pointed out by her for young ladies were 
generally followed, it may be reasonably sup- 
posed that the female character would lose as 
much in grace as it gained in strength. But 
one of the greatest proofs of what I wish to con- 
vey, is to be found in a beautiful romance lately 
published, entitled, Views of Society and Man- 
ners in America by Frances Wright, and which 
gives about as correct an idea of America, as Ar- 
cadian strains of pastoral life. The author re- 
commends the ladies of that country to learn to 



378 



LITERATURE. 



swim, to shoot, and to race. There is happily 
no danger of her recommendations of such a 
Spartan course being adopted ; and I think that 
from a consideration of these and similar cases, 
America may rest perfectly satisfied with the re- 
flection that though she cannot boast of her Hy- 
patias, she can refer with satisfaction to her 
thousands of Cornelias. 



CHAPTER XXVI. 



THE GOVERNMENT. 

America, which at the period of the Independ- 
ence consisted of only thirteen States, has now 
twenty-four, besides East and West Florida, the 
Territories of Arkansaw and Michigan, and the 
District of Columbia. Each of the States has its 
own government in what relates to its internal 
regulations, the federal government being limited 
to foreign affairs, and to a few special ones of 
domestic policy. The plan of confederation is 
admirable. It tends to unite in brotherly love, 
States which would otherwise often be at vari- 
ance, and peace is so invaluable a blessing, that 
whatever is calculated to preserve it, must pro- 
mote the happiness and welfare of the people. 
If the Amphictyonic Council of Greece, had 
been established on as broad a basis as the Ame- 
rican Congress, the evils of the Peloponnesian 
war might have been prevented, and perhaps the 
liberties of the country secured against Roman 
and Turkish usurpation. Before however, offer- 
ing any remarks on the excellence or defects of 
the federal government, it may be as well to ad- 
vert to the State governments. 



380 



THE GOVERNMENT. 



The Constitutions of these governments are 
all republican, though no two are exactly cor- 
respondent. The electoral qualifications vary 
considerably, in some, the suffrage being nearly 
universal, in others, limited by property. From 
the best accounts I could obtain, those States 
are the best regulated where the qualifications 
are the highest. In Maryland and New York, 
where persons with little or no property vote, I 
heard much dissatisfaction expressed. In Vir- 
ginia, where the suffrage is limited to the own- 
ers of fifty acres of freehold land, or a freehold 
house of equivalent value, I found a general ap- 
proval of the conduct of the government. I of 
course speak of the better informed classes, for 
those who have no property at stake, are always 
contenders for the superior excellence of uni- 
versal suffrage : yet even amongst the latter, I 
found the ground of complaint to be, not that 
any evil resulted from the limitation, but that 
they had by nature a right to vote. 

In most of the States, the magistracy are elect- 
ed by the people for a limited period. In Penn- 
sylvania, they are appointed by the Governor for 
life, or at least, during good behaviour. From 
this circumstance, I was led to enquire, whether 
the Pennsylvanians are worse off than their neigh- 



THE GOVERNMENT. 



381 



bours. After due enquiry, I judged not. I learnt 
that unfit persons are sometimes placed into of- 
fice, from political or selfish causes ; but I could 
learn no reasonable objection to the system of ap- 
pointment, which would not apply with increas- 
ed weight to popular election. Hence I am led 
to believe, that the advocates for universal suf- 
frage have fallen into a great error, in supposing 
that natural justice demands it. All that is wanted 
in society, is the promotion of the general good ; 
and if this can be better secured, as it assuredly 
can be, by a limited than by an unlimited right 
of suffrage, natural justice requires, that some 
should yield what otherwise they would be en- 
titled to. In New Jersey, voting at one time was 
exercised by women as well as men. Indeed, 
there seems to be about as much reason for every 
woman having a right to vote, as every man. 
Where suffrage is universal, it follows that power 
is taken from the most intelligent, and given to 
the least, as will be evident by considering that the 
uneducated and ignorant abound most amongst 
the poor, who are necessarily the most numer- 
ous class in society. At the same time, I think 
that it is both unjust and impolitic, to exclude 
from the exercise of suffrage, a whole class like 
the blacks, merely because of the colour of their 
skin. A poor man by industry and frugality may 



THE GOVERNMENT. 



become rich ; but it is physically impossible for 
a black to become white. There therefore the 
hardship lies. He feels himself an outlaw with- 
out just cause, and irremediably so. 

It is sometimes said, that universal suffrage is 
the best security against the use of bribery, from 
the impossibility of bribing a large multitude. 
But a member of Congress told me, that he 
could bribe half his constituents with whiskey ; 
and I was assured, that the election for Balti- 
more, had been secured by one of the candidates 
solely by bribery, though not by the direct use 
of money. Human nature is substantially the 
same everywhere: hence arises the propriety of 
limiting the suffrage to those who are least likely 
to be corrupted. Many persons in America, 
warm friends to their country and its institutions, 
told me that great evils would be prevented in 
several of the States, if the suffrage were more 
limited than it is. One gentleman who formerly 
advocated general, if not universal suffrage, as- 
sured me that the late extension of it in New 
York, had not produced the good which he and 
others had anticipated. As however, the mass 
of the people have a strong liking for general 
suffrage, demagogues avail themselves of the 
feeling, to ingratiate themselves into public es- 



THE GOVERNMENT. 



383 



timation, and obtain applause. And it seems 
not improbable that the time will come, when 
nearly all, if not all the States, will have suf- 
frage to the extent of the wishes of the popu- 
lace. Whether so general an extension of it 
may not be injurious to the public welfare, 
and even to the public liberty, demands the 
serious attention of every well wisher to his 
country. One point connected with this sub- 
ject appears to me clear, namely, that where- 
ever the suffrage extends to the lowest of the 
populace, the period for which the members are 
elected should be of several years' duration, that 
they may have sufficient independence to pro- 
pose or advocate measures, which though unpo- 
pular, appear to be serviceable to the public wel- 
fare. If indeed the uneducated mass of the 
community were qualified to decide on the po- 
licy of new measures, frequent elections and uni- 
versal suffrage would be consonant to reason and 
propriety; but as this is never likely to be the 
case, it is desirable that the representatives should 
have such a degree of independence as to enable 
them to speak and vote according to their un- 
biassed judgment. That such independence has 
not been at all times felt, has been obvious on 
various occasions. I was assured on unquestion- 
able authority, that members had been deterred 



384 



THE GOVERNMENT. 



from espousing measures which appeared to them 
highly expedient from the fear of popular oblo- 
quy. Either therefore, the suffrage should be 
less extensive, or the period for which the mem- 
bers are appointed should be of longer duration. 
In a country where a free press is established, 
and where the number of electors is sufficiently 
large to ensure the people from the exercise of 
despotism and the corrupt influence of the ene- 
mies of freedom, there is no occasion to render 
legislators subservient to the capriciousness of 
the mobility. Legislators should have an un- 
bounded range within the limits prescribed by 
law, without fearing that a little restiveness 
would be the cause of their dismissal from the 
enclosure. 

The only State legislature which I had an op- 
portunity of attending when in session, was that 
of Pennsylvania. The business was conducted 
with that decorum which marks all public bodies 
in the United States. A question was before the 
upper house involving several considerations of 
political economy ; a science which seems to be 
,as little understood as religion, if we may judge 
by the diversity of opinions on any given branch 
of it. Two of the speakers handled the subject 
in a masterly manner, bringing to the discussion. 



THE GOVERNMENT. 385 

minds evidently prepared by previous study to 
develope their ideas clearly and logically. 
Though their opponents could not match them 
in argument, they were able to overpower them 
by numbers, selfish considerations and party bias 
bringing a decision contrary to sound policy. It 
is proper to add, that the legislature of Pennsyl- 
vania is elected by a very general suffrage of the 
people, wherefore, we need not be surprised that 
some measures pass and others are rejected, 
rather in compliance with popular clamour than 
from the deliberate opinion of the members. 
One thing which particularly struck me in their 
proceedings, was the great number of petitions 
presented on different subjects, and not only pe- 
titions but remonstrances. The reason of my 
taking such particular notice of them, arose from 
my remembering an argument used in the House 
of Commons. in favour of a reform in the repre- 
sentation of the people. It was contended, that 
if the people of England were more faithfully 
represented, the House would no longer be bur- 
dened with multitudes of petitions complaining 
of grievances, as the people would have so much 
confidence in the persons of their choice, as to 
render petitioning almost unnecessary. The ex- 
perience of Pennsylvania with its nearly univer- 
sal suffrage, is not confirmatory of this argument. 

c c 



386 



THE GOVERNMENT. 



In the lower house, a debate about a printing 
job occupied two days. Matters of this kind 
should be arranged by a committee empowered 
to act definitively, an assembly of one hundred 
men being little adapted to settle what quality 
of paper, and size of type are requisite. And as 
to price, if the committee cannot be trusted to 
make a bargain, let public notice be issued for 
tenders, the lowest bidder to be the contractor. 
A gentleman to whom I expressed these senti- 
ments, contended in reply, that the representa- 
tives must as a body give their sanction to every 
pecuniary grant ; consequently, that it was their 
bounden duty to examine the items. I can see 
no propriety in this. Power is delegated by the 
many to the few, because the former find it im- 
possible to attend to the general interests. A 
committee fairly chosen, may act with as much 
propriety for a legislative assembly in certain 
cases, as the assembly for the people. In the 
case under notice, a considerable additional ex- 
pense was probably incurred, in consequence of 
the time employed in its discussion ; for as the 
House consists of one hundred members, each 
of whom receives three dollars a day, and as two 
days were occupied about it, here was a charge 
upon the people of six hundred dollars, to effect 
a saving of perhaps one hundred, if indeed, there 



THE GOVERNMENT. 3HJ 

was any saving effected. The whole concern 
seemed to me rather too beggarly for a legislative 
body. It is said, with what truth I pretend not 
to determine, that the members of all the legis- 
latures in Am erica, are willing to protract the 
time of their remaining in session to the longest 
possible period, that the sum of money to be re- 
ceived by them for their services may be consi- 
derable. If so, the compensation should be by 
an annual sum instead of a daily. 

There is one circumstance resulting from so 
many separate State governments, which may 
in time lead to serious inconveniences ; I allude 
to the difference in laws. Perhaps scarcely any 
thing tends more* to unite a people into general 
harmony, and make them feel a common in- 
terest, than the being subject to the same laws 
in all parts of the country. In America, how- 
ever, the difference in the laws between one 
State and another is often considerable, and is 
said to be constantly widening. In this there 
must be considerable disadvantage ; though a 
counterbalance may probably be found, in the ri- 
valship of the States in enacting laws of a salutary 
influence. The career of human improvement 
is doubtless accelerated by the emulation of dif- 
ferent nations ; and if the Americans have also 



388 



THE GOVERNMENT. 



the same stimulus amongst themselves, they may 
possibly improve in an increased ratio. 

A common interest on many great points, 
must necessarily be felt by the various States of 
the Union. The general government is framed 
on such equitable terms, that every state is in- 
terested in its preservation. The number of re- 
presentatives sent by each State to the House of 
Representatives, is apportioned agreeably to 
their respective numerical amounts of popula- 
tion, while to prevent the possibility of the in- 
terests of the minor States being overpowered by 
the major, the Senate is constituted of an equal 
number of members from each State. The repre- 
sentatives are elected biennially, the senators 
sexennially. The former are elected by the 
people, the latter by the State legislatures. Each 
State determines on the qualifications of the 
electors, and the mode of election. In most of 
the States, ballot is I believe adopted. In Vir- 
ginia, however, the oral mode has always been 
in use. Ballot has been supposed by many to 
be favourable to freedom, by offering a mode of 
voting which can never comport with bribery, 
or with the influence of rank and power over the 
lower classes. Cicero appears to have been of 
this opinion, as we find him in his dialogue on 



THE GOVERNMENT. 



389 



friendship, objecting to the Gabinian law, by 
which ballot was enacted in lieu of oral voting, 
on the ground that the populace would gain the 
ascendancy in elections ; a degree of freedom 
to which he was averse. But from what I saw 
and heard in America, I was convinced that it 
is a very imperfect method of preventing either 
munerary or other influence; for by means of 
tickets printed on paper of a particular colour, 
and by other similar devices, it is generally well 
known for whom a person votes. Certainly bal- 
lot is unnecessary in all countries where proper 
freedom prevails ; as a man truly free has no 
fear of evil from any vote which he may think 
fit to give. The less secrecy and mystery there 
is in political matters, the better: every thing in 
a land of freedom should be open to public in- 
spection. Ballot, to my mind, implies a degree 
of cowardice as unworthy of a free people, as 
artificial supports are of expert swimmers. 

One part of the American mode of election 
might be very advantageously introduced into 
England. Instead of having only one polling 
booth in a county, there is commonly one in 
each township ; by which means great expense 
is saved, inducements to riot and disorder are 
checked, and the whole is speedily terminated. 



390 



THE GOVERNMENT. 



In Pennsylvania, the election of Governor is 
the work of only one day. 

The federal government is supported by im- 
port duties, and the sums raised by the sale of 
land purchased of the Indians, no excise or as- 
sessment being established. It may however be 
reasonably doubted, whether the prosperity of 
the country be so much promoted by this absence 
of taxation, as it would by a moderate excise. 
John deWitt, the famous Pensionary of Holland, 
and one of the greatest statesmen Europe ever 
produced, was of opinion, that internal prosperi- 
ty was advanced by taxation perpetually increas- 
ing. This, however, could of course only be 
true, where the amount raised was judiciously 
expended. That the Americans do not derive 
so much benefit from their freedom of taxation 
as is generally supposed, is evident from one 
simple circumstance. In England, there is a 
high duty on malt, hops, and beer; yet notwith- 
standing this triple duty, beer is retailed in Eng- 
land cheaper than in America. I mentioned this 
to an American statesman of high repute, who 
admitted that their policy was erroneous. 

ens ^iu>«d£3<|SJ , x ;t<* 'js'tiitxhM ^M&itg, & toti tiW I "Jsot 
There is, however, an assessment on house- 
keepers for the support of the respective State 



T H E GOVERNMENT, 



391 



governments ; a mode of taxation more excep- 
tionable than an excise for various reasons, and 
not so likely to promote the general welfare of 
the community. In New York, this assessment is 
on property, probably the most equitable prin- 
ciple of direct taxation that can be devised, but 
which is likely to lead to much malversation, 
and become, as it did in England, odious to the 
people from its inquisitorial nature. I must add, 
for the information of many of my countrymen 
who have deceived themselves respecting the 
comparative advantages of a residence at home 
or in the United States, that the sale of house- 
hold goods under the sheriff's authority is a mat- 
ter of common occurrence in many parts of the 
country, so difficult, and indeed impossible, is it 
to levy the taxes without resorting to legal 
assistance. 

It is not my intention to enter on an extended 
examination of the constitution and principles of 
the federal government, as such an examination 
would scarcely harmonise with the other parts 
of this book. A few general observations are 
all I shall offer. It is proper for me to premise, 
that I am not a great admirer of republicanism, 
but strongly attached to a monarchy under the 
limitations of law. 



392 



THE GOVERNMENT. 



People in England often confound the two 
words, government and constitution, as if they 
were synonimous or nearly so. In America, this 
mistake is never made ; the reason for which is, 
that each State government, as well as the federal 
government, has a written constitution which is 
unalterable without the concurrence of the peo- 
ple; whereas, the English government has a con- 
stitution founded mainly on ancient usage and 
modern precedents; but which may be altered by 
the concurrence of its three estates without a se- 
parate appeal to the people. I have indeed heard 
it maintained, that England has a written con- 
stitution, because the act of Union with Scot- 
land determined the number of representatives 
which each country should have, and that the act 
of Union with Ireland settled the proportion for 
that country. But this is a very incomplete 
statement of the case. Can any thing but pre- 
scription be pleaded for numerous decayed bo- 
roughs sending representatives to the House of 
Commons ? But in America nothing is left to 
prescription, the constitution defining accurately 
the limits and powers of the government, a pro- 
vision being at the same time made for effecting 
those changes in the constitution which may from 
time to time be necessary or expedient. By this 
regulation, if some positive good be sometimes 



THE GOVERNMENT. 



gained, evil is also liable to be introduced. Fre- 
quent changes are so injurious to the well-being 
of a country, that it may be believed, that it is 
often better to bear some present inconveniences 
than to agree to alterations. 

The principal error of the American constitu- 
tion, appears to me to be the weakness of the ex- 
ecutive power ; for dangerous as it is to trust too 
much to individuals, it is often no less dangerous 
to a nation to have the executive authority in 
hands incapable of effecting full and prompt 
measures. The President can conclude no treaty 
without the consent of the Senate ; and the con- 
currence of that body is requisite in the appoint- 
ment of certain officers. This must be regarded 
as rather a clumsy contrivance, and of little na- 
tional advantage ; for though some check is re- 
quisite, it should not be vested in so large a body 
as the Senate, and which is only part of the year 
in session. Besides, suppose that the President 
should provisionally conclude a treaty, in which 
some pecuniary compensation was to be made to 
a foreign power, how can the Senate act in such 
a case independent of the House of Representa- 
tives ? for the Senate has no power to originate 
a money bill. The weakness of the executive 
was remarkably manifested on a recent occasion. 



394 



THE GOVERNMENT. 



An expedition was fitted out to explore certain 
parts of the territory west of the Mississippi ; 
but after about half finishing its assigned task, it 
was recalled, on the allegation that the finances 
of the country were so low, that no additional 
expense must be incurred ! In this instance, not 
only did the government appear weak, but the 
country itself contemptible. 

Another error in the constitution, is the great 
extent of the suffrage exercised by the people 
in union with the frequency of the elections : 
but on this subject I have before animadverted. 
The objection, agreeably to what I stated a few 
pages back, applies to the House of Representa- 
tives but not to the Senate, the Representatives 
being elected for two years, and the Senators 
for six, and the former being constituted by the 
electors of the most numerous branch of each 
State Assembly, while the latter are elected by 
each Assembly itself. The number of members 
which each State returns to the lower house is 
proportionate to its population ; but to prevent 
the undue ascendancy of the populous States, 
the Senate is composed of an equal number 
from each State. Thus the members of the 
lower house represent the people, those of the 
upper the respective governments. Probably no 



I'llK («'()V KRNMENT. 



$96 



regulation could be devised more equitable or 
salutary than this, as by means of it, jealousy 
between one State and another is prevented, 
and a check is put on the exacerbation of the 
multitude in times of effervescence* 

I am by no means satisfied that the Americans 
have acted discreetly in decreeing the entire 
separation of the executive from the legislative 
department. Information is often wanted which 
none but official persons can supply. In Con- 
gress this can seldom be obtained at the mo- 
ment, and on the following day it may come 
too late. The idea that much corruption and 
undue influence are prevented by the separa- 
tion, will not be long held by those who know 
what human nature is. I was repeatedly as- 
sured, that in proportion to its duration, a more 
corrupt government than the American never 
existed ; and I heard circumstances stated in il- 
lustration, which if true, appear to substantiate 
the charge. It should seem therefore, that the 
government is as much master of the citadel of 
corruption, as Giant Despair was of Doubting- 
Castle. The executive now manage to have their 
measures supported by indirect means, instead of 
meeting their opponents openly in the field and 
boldly contending with them. 



396 



THE GOVERNMENT. 



When Solon was asked to give a definition 
of the best popular government, he replied, 
that in which an injury done to the meanest ci- 
tizen, is resented as an insult upon the whole 
constitution. If the American government be 
tried by the test of the Athenian lawgiver, it 
will be found defective. The meanest citizens 
in America are the free blacks, for the slaves, 
as a matter of course, are not entitled to the ap- 
pellation of citizens; yet when the legislature 
of South Carolina passed its oppressive law 
against the blacks, subjecting them to imprison- 
ment and slavery for no offence, the voice of in- 
dignation was scarcely heard. Even the North 
American Review, from which some active justice 
might have been expected, was no more roused 
to act, than the Christian senators in Constanti- 
nople, who continued their disputes about grace 
and election till the Turks had entered the city. 
Arethe oppressed in America, to wait like the 
impotent at the pool of Bethesda for an angel to 
stir the waters? Publish it not, lest the enemies 
of the government rejoice. But whatever may 
may be the errors or defects of the government, 
it would be folly to deny, that it is one which, 
as far as the whites are concerned, is generally 
agreeable to the people, and having excellencies 
of no common order. It may not be so well 



THE GOVERNMENT. 



397 



adapted as a limited monarchy to secure all 
the £ood that is desirable, but it secures so 
much, that the people have reason to be thank- 
ful, that they live in a land blessed with such a 
one. 

A question has often been started as to its pro- 
bable duration and extent. Plausible reasons 
may be given for believing, that its duration will 
be, if not perpetual, at least as long as that of 
any government which has preceded it ; and that 
its extent will be from the Atlantic to the Pa- 
cific, from Mexico to the shores of the arctic 
ocean. But so differently constituted is the 
American government from any of those of an- 
tiquity that the example of history is wanting to 
enable us to judge of the soundness of these rea- 
sons. That at no distant day, the States west of 
the Mississippi will have an interest opposed in 
many points to those on the east, and more es- 
pecially to those forming the territory denomi- 
nated New England, will be obvious on a little 
reflection. Whether this may not lead to a dis- 
ruption of the Union, is a question not easily 
solved ; but there is great probability, that in 
the event of a protracted war, an attempt at 
least would be made to effect it. Another cir- 
cumstance worth considering is, whether the sta- 



398 



THE GOVERNMENT. 



bility of the Union may not be endangered by 
the continuance of slavery in the southern States. 
The republic of Colombia in South America has 
decreed its abolition ; symptoms of a wish to fol- 
low in the same track, have been manifested by 
Mexico ; Hayti is not only free from.it, but the 
blacks have the supremacy ; and Cuba, in the 
event of its becoming independent of a foreign 
power, would almost certainly be compelled to 
put an end to it. The spirit of liberty would 
not be confined to those countries. The south- 
ern States would be placed in great jeopardy, 
not only from their example, but from that of 
the free States of the Union. Louisiana would 
be influenced by Mexico ; Carolina and Geor- 
gia, to say nothing of Florida, by Hayti and Cu- 
ba ; Maryland and Virginia by Pennsylvania ; 
and Kentucky and Tennessee by Ohio, Indiana 
and Illinois. Should a general insurrection of 
the slave population once take place, and a mi- 
litary force be requisite to quell it, the people of 
the free States would soon be disgusted at the 
idea of contributing to the upholding of tyran- 
ny. The contest, if long continued, would be- 
come unpopular with nearly all but the slave own- 
ers. I know it will be said, that the slave States 
have a militia sufficient for all the purposes of 
preventing a successful revolt ; and that there- 



IHE GOVERNMENT. 



399 



fore the assistance of the other States would be 
unnecessary. But it must be remembered, that 
a general revolt is not very likely to occur with- 
out the instigation and succour of some foreign 
power ; and in that case, the assistance of the 
other States would soon be essential. Remote 
as a general revolt of the slaves now appears to 
the whites of the southern States, they cannot 
deny that it is likely sooner or later to arise. It 
therefore becomes the duty of American states- 
men, to ascertain how far such a matter is likely 
to affect the general interest of the United States. 
Probably they will find that it is not so unimport- 
ant as is generally supposed. One thing is clear, 
namely, that the Haytians must feel a hatred to 
all those governments which uphold slavery, and 
more especially to the government of the United 
States, which has acknowledged the independ- 
ence of the Spanish colonies, and refused to per- 
form the same act of justice to them, notwith- 
standing their much greater claim. 

It would be improper to finish this chapter, 
without adverting to the probability of some of 
the British provinces being added to the Union. 
It must be the wish of the American government, 
not only to have the free navigation of the St. 
Lawrence, but to secure New Brunswick and 



400 



THE GOVERNMENT* 



Canada, to prevent future hostility from those 
quarters, and to allay those jealousies which must 
arise so long as they continue separate. On the 
other hand, Great Britain will be reluctant to 
forego the supposed advantages of those exten- 
sive possessions, while the inhabitants may justly 
doubt whether they would benefit by the change. 
The influence of the Catholic clergy, which is 
very great in Lower Canada, would be exerted 
to prevent it, they having a dislike to the repub- 
licanism and protestantism of the United States, 
and a natural fear, that the alliance between their 
church and the government would cease, if the 
measure should be carried. In Upper Canada 
reasons of policy would operate to make the co- 
lonists distrust its expediency. Still it would be 
absurd to suppose, that Great Britain will be able 
to maintain her authority for ever ; and as the 
three provinces I have named, and probably 
Nova Scotia, are sufficiently populous and pow- 
erful to exist independent of the mother country, 
it appears to me that it would be the interest of 
the latter to cede them to the United States for 
a proper compensation. If from any unforeseen 
cause, the colonies should resist the power of 
England, they would of course solicit, and most 
likely obtain, the co-operation of the United 
States. Under such circumstances, a war to keep 



THE GOVE RN ME N T . 



401 



them in subjection would be uncommonly ex- 
pensive, and almost certainly disastrous. 

As to Mexico, California, and the West India 
islands, being added to the Union, a circumstance 
which some of the Americans are pleased to an- 
ticipate, the probabilities are so remote, that it 
is not worth while to examine them. Yet it 
must be admitted, that few things in govern- 
ment are more delightful, than a federal head to 
settle all differences between rival states. If 
the European governments had such a tribunal 
equitably constituted, how much war and blood- 
shed would be prevented ! Penn suggested some- 
thing of this kind, and Louis . XIV. conceived 
the idea of effecting such an establishment, only 
that he wanted France to be at the head of it. 
If in a more enlightened age it should be adopt- 
ed, it will be to the example of America that the 
world will be indebted for it. 

I have often been rather surprised that Dean 
Swift, who is so unmerciful on regal governments 
in his Blefuscu and Lilliput, should not have 
aimed a blow at republics in his philosophical 
island of Laputa. What a fine subject for satire 
he might have found in the flattery which is of- 
fered to the people by their elected chiefs ! As 

D D 



402 THE GOVERNMENT. 

Pericles used to enlarge before the Athenians 
on their love of liberty, so the demagogues and 
even the Presidents of America will condescend 
to court popularity by reminding the people of 
their possessing the sovereignty of the country. 
By jugglery and fawning being incessantly em- 
ployed by the leaders, the sequacious herd have 
learnt that disposition to extol their bravery and 
virtue, which has excited such disgust in the 
minds of foreigners, but which, though often 
mentioned, is still as conspicuous as ever. Edu- 
cated persons have also taken the infection, 
which has manifested itself in their extravagant 
eulogiums on the country and its government. 
Thus in one of the Addresses before the Penn- 
sylvanian Agricultural Society, it is asserted, 
that the only distinction known in the country is 
that between virtue and vice ! The illative po- 
sition from this is, that slavery does not exist in 
America, and that the free blacks are admissible 
and admitted into all the public offices. Would 
that the government merited the character which 
this writer has bestowed on it ! Yet in spite of 
all that may be urged against it, it is entitled to 
admiration and respect, as the fragrance of the 
rose delights notwithstanding the thorns that 
encompass it. 



CHAPTER XXVII. 



POLITICAL PARTIES. 

During the contest of the colonies with Eng- 
land, there were two parties, the one favourable 
to a settlement of the differences between them 
without a disruption of the connection, the other 
bent on an unqualified separation. After the In- 
dependence was effected, two other parties were 
formed, which with modifications still remain. 
They assumed, or had bestowed on them, the 
names of Democrats and Federalists. The De- 
mocrats espoused the cause of France, the Feder- 
alists that of England, in the subsequent contest 
between the two powers ; and it required all the 
energy and talent of Washington to prevent the 
nation's offering assistance to France ; a measure 
which must have been most injurious to Ame- 
rica. The Democrats had conceived the idea, 
that the French in assisting the Americans to 
throw off the authority of England, had been 
actuated by the love of liberty, not perceiving 
that the influential motive was jealousy and ha- 
tred of England. Accordingly, after the over- 
throw of the Bourbon dynasty, and the forma- 
d d 2 



404 



POLITICAL PARTIES. 



tion of a republic, they were very desirous of 
supporting that republic against the arms of Eng- 
land and her allies. Gratitude, it was contend- 
ed, required that the Americans should assist 
France, in return for her co-operation in the 
struggle for Independence. Washington hap- 
pily saw that the interests of the country de- 
manded neutrality, and to its maintenance he 
devoted himself. He was not possessed of so 
grasping an intellect as Caesar or Napoleon ; but 
he had a clear judgment, an ardent attachment 
to rational liberty, and great firmness combined 
with greater prudence. Though he had ambi- 
tion, it was not the mad ambition of a conqueror 
who is content to desolate kingdoms to swell his 
own triumph, but that of a patriot whose aim is 
to improve his country by mild and moderate 
measures. Happy indeed was it for America, 
that such a man conducted her revolutionary 
contest, and laid the foundations of her stability 
and prosperity, The confidence which the peo- 
ple reposed in him, was the salvation of the coun- 
try from joining in the system of European po- 
litics. His successor in the Presidency trod in 
his footsteps ; and it was not till the election of 
Jefferson that the democratic faction gained the 
ascendency. It would exceed the proper limits 
and indeed object of this book, to attempt to 



POLITICAL PARTIES. 



405 



trace the effect of his measures whether success- 
ful or otherwise ; but it will be proper to show 
the errors into which the Democrats were led, 
by party bias and false zeal. 

Perhaps no political chief ever had more re- 
liance placed on him than Jefferson. He was 
the man who according to his partisans was to 
raise America to the pinnacle of prosperity, yet 
it is worth noticing, that he fell far below 
Washington in the success of his policy, and 
was as inconsistent as Robespierre respecting 
liberty. Not that it is meant to be insinuated 
that Jefferson is to be regarded with horror like 
that sanguinary monster, or that in his public 
measures he was not actuated by patriotism : far 
otherwise. Still he was inconsistent as it re- 
spected liberty. He was the author of the cele- 
brated Declaration of Independence ; a docu- 
ment which speaks of liberty as a natural and 
inalienable right, and which denounces George 
III. as a tyrant for his attempts to deprive the 
Americans of it : and yet this man was then the 
owner of hundreds of slaves, and has continued 
so to the present day! It certainly was not his 
fault that his patrimonial estate was cultivated 
by slaves ; the inconsistency lay in denouncing 
George III. as a tyrant, while he himself con- 



406 



POLITICAL PARTIES. 



tinned to hold slaves without making any attempt 
to persuade the State Assembly to abolish sla- 
very, or instituting means to prepare his own 
slaves for that freedom, which, according to the 
Declaration, is the birthright of all men. Wash- 
ington too was the owner of slaves ; but when 
we consider how little of his time was given to 
his private affairs, and how little the public at- 
tention had been drawn to the injustice and ini- 
quity of slavery, we may fairly acquit him of a 
like inconsistency. That he lamented the exist- 
ence of slavery and desired its extirpation, can- 
not be doubted \ for by his will, he manumitted 
all his slaves ; a measure, however, which was 
not consonant to his general prudence, as the 
slaves on an estate should not be released in a 
body, but gradually. His memory, however, 
will be revered by posterity as it is by the pre- 
sent generation, for his noble devotion to his 
country's interest, for his admirable and success- 
ful policy, for his avoiding the errors of heroes 
and conquerors, and for having shown his modera- 
tion by retiring from power, as soon as the new 
government had become sufficiently stable to con- 
tinue without his paternal superintendence. The 
memory of Jefferson will be regarded with less 
esteem, and with considerable drawbacks. Some 
will censure his policy; others will question his 



POLITICAL PARTIES. 



407 



sincerity : his character at best will be consider- 
ed equivocal. Yet because he succeeded in gain- 
ing the ascendancy of the Federalists, he was 
viewed by the Democrats as one of the greatest 
benefactors to his country. 

Jefferson had not only a dislike to England, 
he had a detestation of it. While the policy of 
Washington tended to allay the hostile feeling 
occasioned by the revolutionary contest towards 
the mother country, that of Jefferson fostered 
and increased it. Hence the Democrats not only 
professed themselves the friends of republican 
France, but of Napoleon himself. It may ap- 
pear anomalous that the party in America which 
advocated the cause of liberty (and it was this 
cause to which the Democrats avowed them- 
selves particularly devoted,) should also espouse 
that of Napoleon, since no European monarch 
ruled more absolutely than he. Such inconsist- 
ences are however so common that we need not 
be surprised at them. The American advocates 
for liberty looked to what he overturned, not to 
what he established. They saw that the ancient 
dynasties were falling before him, and that a 
spirit of resistance to long established authority 
was every where rising. These things were 
enough for them. Napoleon's splendid deeds 



4?)8 POLITICAL PARTIES. 

filled their imagination ; his genius captivated 
their affections. Apparently regardless that he 
was creating a power more despotic than those 
he destroyed, they gave him full credit for in- 
tending to make his designs subservient to the 
general freedom of Europe. They saw indeed 
that his own power was augmenting ; that li- 
berty was more and more curtailed wherever it 
extended ; that his brothers were placed on the 
thrones of nations to whom they were aliens ; 
and that these nations were plundered, and made 
dependencies on France. All these were how- 
ever to be forgiven, under the hope that he 
would effect, if not a conquest of England, at 
least a revolution in it. The Democrats seemed 
to think, that Napoleon, like some hero of ro- 
mance, was fitted to encounter giants and ma- 
gicians, to overthrow castles and slay their 
guardian dragons, while his sole ambition was to 
renovate the world. Even to the present day 
the delusion has not quite vanished, his attempt^ 
ed justification to his attendants at St. Helena, 
having again dazzled and almost blinded some, 
who were before beginning to see clearly. 

£J * > f \ -/ —Ato md* 

That the Democrats, notwithstanding their 
declared devotion to liberty, are not in reality so 
friendly to it as some of the opposite party, I had 



POLITICAL PARTIES. 



409 



good reasons for believing. I was conversing 
with a hot-headed, violent clamourer for liberty, 
who lavished his abuse on England for her into- 
lerance, when I asked him what he could offer in 
vindication of the different State governments of 
his own country for their laws concerning the 
free negroes. " Why," said he, " I see nothing 
inconsistent with civil liberty in excluding them 
from power, as they do not belong to our nation. 
They are to be considered as foreigners ; and 
surely if a body of foreigners settle amongst us, 
we have an undoubted right to decree, that they 
and their posterity shall continue aliens." The 
person who made this remark was a man of edu- 
cation, and of considerable repute for his attain- 
ments ; but at the same time so impatient of op- 
position, no matter how gentle, that I let him 
keep the field in conscious triumph. Another 
person of correspondent political sentiments, ar- 
gued with me so strongly in favour of the supe- 
rior intelligence of the Americans, and of their 
being so much more enlightened than any other 
people in all that regards government, that I 
asked him if they could see further into a brick 
wall than other people. This put him a little to 
the nonplus ; but he continued to speak of Ame- 
rica as the land of freemen, and England as that 
of slaves. He was one who appeared to have 



410 



POLITICAL PARTIES. 



studied much, though to little purpose as far as 
the removal of prejudice was concerned. A third 
person was speaking to me in praise of the go- 
vernment, when Iremarked to him, that I thought 
the Democrats were not sufficiently tolerant to 
those who opposed the government. " Why," 
said he, " I think that those who write against 
so good a government ought to be hanged." I 
remarked in reply, that though it was proper that 
the transgressors of the libel laws should be pu- 
nished, there being no true liberty without re- 
straint, yet I could not accord with him in opi- 
nion that death was a proper punishment. How- 
ever he persisted in his opinion that it was. From 
this, I judged that he could not be a man of 
much education ; but I instance it to show that 
those who are the loudest clamourers for liberty 
are not always the readiest to grant it. 

But the most curious case of the intolerant 
spirit of the Democrats that came under my no- 
tice, was in the corporation of New York. Dur- 
ing my stay in that city, a small book was pub- 
lished bearing the title of " Gotham and the 
Gothamites." It was a piece of low, vulgar 
abuse decked with witticisms, intended to raise 
a laugh at some members of the corporation, and 
at several public characters, and was much on a 



POLITICAL PARTIES. 



Ill 



par with those caricatures of royalty so common 
in England. The English tories would have been 
ashamed to show any resentment at such a pro- 
duction against themselves ; but the New York 
Democrats do not like to be laughed at, and or- 
dered the District Attorney to prepare an in- 
dictment. The thing seemed to me too con- 
temptible for prosecution, however the poor au- 
thor was brought to trial. What was the issue 
of it I cannot say, as the proceedings were un- 
finished when I left. 

The Federalists on their part have fallen into 
errors respecting both their own government and 
that of England. I fell into company with one 
of the strongest partisans amongst them at Bos- 
ton, the tone of whose remarks on their govern- 
ment was so tinctured with unworthy prejudice, 
that I endeavoured to convince him that more 
good was to be found under it than he was will- 
ing to admit. The circumstance of my being 
an Englishman induced him to think favourably 
of my remarks, and in consequence of them his 
tone was so much moderated, that one present 
told me he had not seen him so reasonable for 
years. 

The great error of the Federalists respecting 



412 POLITICAL PARTIES. 

England, has been their defending those parts 
of the constitution, those acts of the government, 
and those laws, which have been and are at va- 
riance with the times in which we live. Accord* 
ingly, some of them when in England have found 
themselves put a little into difficulties : for in 
conversing with the tories, they have had to argue 
with men whose opinions on politics were mainly 
correspondent with their own, but whose respect 
for America was very little ; while they have 
found the whigs admirers of America, but op- 
posed to them in other matters. 

At present, party spirit is nearly dormant in 
the United States, compared at least with what it 
was a few years ago, there being fewer exciting 
causes. The question which has for some years 
engaged the attention of American politicians, 
on the expediency of prohibitory duties on fo- 
reign manufactured articles, is one rather of par- 
ticular local interests than of party feeling. In 
the southern States where no manufactures are 
carried on, and where none can be profitably car- 
ried on while slavery continues, there is of course 
a hostile feeling to this measure. In other dis- 
tricts it is opposed on mercantile grounds ; while 
in some, it is supported under the impression, 
that their interests will be promoted by the in- 



POLITICAL PARTIES. 



413 



dependence of the nation on foreign countries. 
The idea of a nation's being so independent, as 
to flourish without foreign supplies, is one agree- 
able to patriotic feeling; but a little examination 
may convince us of the folly of entertaining it. 
The landed interest in England insisted much 
on it, when the famous corn bill, which has been 
productive of such melancholy results, was in agi- 
tation. The farmers in particular were to pro- 
fit by it ; yet there has been more agricultural 
distress since it was passed than was the case be- 
fore. The freer the intercourse between the 
different nations in the world, the greater must 
be their common benefit and improvement. If 
China permitted a free intercourse with foreign 
countries, she would soon begin to emerge from 
her present degraded mental condition. That 
the American manufacturers might experience 
a temporary improvement is highly probable ; 
but that the country at large would find any be- 
nefits, or the manufacturers themselves for a per- 
manence, is by no means clear. England, after 
a trial of two centuries of the exclusive system, 
is at length giving it up, and certainly with 
great prospects of advantage to the country. 



CHAPTER XXVIIL 



LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE. 

The English common law is of authority in all 
the States originally English. In Pennsylvania, 
it is true, an act was passed many years ago de- 
claring it of no authority, but like many other 
acts it is not regarded, the decisions of our courts 
being cited as frequently in the courts of that 
State as of the other States, and as much weight 
being attached to them. It is worth remarking, 
that the Americans, who profess to pay no re- 
gard to precedent in respect to the powers of go- 
vernment, are guided chiefly by precedent in 
their judicatories. Whatever credit therefore 
may be due to them for their improvements in 
government, I can see little they can claim in 
jurisprudence. Some of their statutes are doubt- 
less more worthy of the age, than those antiqua- 
ted laws relative to capital crimes which disgrace 
the statute-book of England ; but the Americans 
have not effected such a change in the system of 
law proceedings, as their separation from Eng- 
land, and the superior intelligence of the age re- 
quire. Not one of the States has yet had its So- 



LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE. 



415 



Ion, Justinian or Napoleon. The lawyers have 
found it so much to their interest and advantage 
to support the anomalies of English law, that 
few of them have been removed. Even in the 
framing of acts, they have retained all that use- 
less and nonsensical repetition of words and 
phrases which, under the pretence of preventing 
mis-construction, is as often the cause of it, ren- 
dering such instruments unfit for their purpose, 
as blindness or lameness disqualify for guidance. 
Written laws ought to be so clear that he who 
runs may read ; but they are commonly as obs- 
cure as a distant object in a cloudy day. 

Though I cannot praise the Americans for 
their improvements of law as a science, yet I ac- 
knowledge that they have shown a great readi- 
ness to remove some of the most objectionable 
parts of old English law. In few of the States 
are crimes short of murder punished with death ; 
in none, I believe, is that terrible punishment 
inflicted for crimes so small as in England : yet 
property and tranquillity are on the whole not 
badly secured, though the expense of such secu- 
rity is much less. It is remarkable however, that 
notwithstanding the alterations they have made, 
they still retain in most of the States, the laws 
against usury, and in some, the assize of bread. 



416 



LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE, 



A bill to establish a limitation to the interest of 
money, passed the legislature of Louisiana, but 
the Governor very properly refused to affix his 
signature to it, so that it was relinquished. Lou- 
isiana, it must be remembered, was not originally 
an English colony. 

There is one remarkable difference between 
the laws of the two countries on the subject of 
insolvency. The punishment of imprisonment 
for that offence, has been abolished in several of 
the Stages, conformably with the Code Napoleon. 
How far this may be found beneficial to the com- 
mon interest, has not yet been satisfactorily de- 
termined. Though the propriety of the measure 
has been much eulogised by some writers and 
speakers amongst them, I heard great dissatis- 
faction expressed by numbers. 

One very striking feature in the American ju- 
dicatories, is the reception of testimony without 
the sanction of an oath ; not that oaths are abo- 
lished in any of the States, but because it is op- 
tional with a witness to take them. This option 
was doubtless at first given, in compliance with 
the conscientious scruples of the Society of 
Friends ; but numbers amongst the Baptists and 
other religionists avail themselves of it; and 



LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE. 417 

what deserves remembrance, no inconvenience 
that I could learn, has ever resulted from it. 
The opinion is so established in England, that 
juratory evidence is more worthy of credence 
than that which is simply affirmative, that I sup- 
pose the experience and example of America will 
have little effect at present : yet it is worth while 
to endeavour to ascertain if the opinion is well 
grounded. Oaths must have originated in a bar- 
barous age, and most probably from superstition, 
As men become civilized and enlightened, the 
necessity of them, supposing they are ever neces- 
sary, soon ceases. The tendering of an oath to a 
person who has never been convicted of falsehood, 
is at variance with justice and good sense. Like 
the ordeals used to detect witchcraft, or the ap- 
peals to Heaven's justice by the knights of sin- 
gle combat, it is ill adapted to the sentiments of 
those who have taught themselves to believe, 
that reason and probability must decide in doubt- 
ful matters. Amongst the advocates for the uti- 
lity of oaths, are there many who would believe 
a person on his oath, whose deliberate and so- 
lemn affirmation they would distrust ? I suspect 
not ; for who does not perceive, that the man 
who shudders not at mendacity, would be likely 
to be guilty of perjury ? The security for obtain- 
ing truth in judicial cases, is to be found in the 

E E 



418 LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE. 



cross examination, in public exposure, and in the 
fear of incurring the punishment for false evi- 
dence. 

That oaths do not tend to secure truth more 
than simple affirmation, is abundantly evident, 
for perjury is continually taking place on the 
part of persons whose education and standing in 
life exempt them from being suspected ignorant 
of the importance of moral rectitude. English 
juries have in a thousand cases, given verdicts 
contrary to evidence to save criminals from the 
gallows, thus suffering humanity to operate so 
powerfully, as to induce them to believe that it 
would be better to perjure themselves, than be 
accessory to the death of persons, for crimes of 
insufficient magnitude to demand the blood of 
their perpetrators. The oath taken by the free- 
men and livery of London, is I believe rarely 
observed completely. For instance, is there one 
liveryman in a hundred, who thinks himself 
bound to obey all the lawful summonses to the 
court of his company ? Let any liveryman read 
the words of his oath with attention, and he will 
soon perceive how little it is regarded by most 
in some other respects. The oaths taken on 
matriculation at the two universities of Oxford 
and Cambridge, are accompanied by explana- 



LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE. 419 

tions, the purport of which is to prove that the 
oaths themselves are to be understood different- 
ly to what their language conveys to every mind; 
consequently, that the swearer is to adopt a men- 
tal reservation while using them, though such 
reservation is as incompatible with morality and 
religion as perjury itself. If it be said, that there 
is no mental reservation in such cases, because 
both the administrator and the taker of the oath, 
are agreed in interpreting it in the same sense, 
I reply, that this is a tergiversation which cannot 
be admitted ; because, if it be allowable in any 
case, to say one thing and mean another quite 
opposite, truth will be, like a flexible body, capa- 
ble of being turned into any shape at pleasure, 
and will be completely identified with falsehood. 
Besides it should ever be borne in mind that a 
third party exists, namely, the Being appealed 
to ; and how are the other two parties to ascer- 
tain that he sanctions the departure from the 
words used ? And yet without his sanction, how 
can any one be justified in adopting any other 
than the literal meaning ? A striking proof of 
the uselessness of oaths, is to be found in the 
practice of the two Houses of Parliament, evi- 
dence before the Lords being always juratory, 
that before the Commons affirmative only. Are 
witnesses before the latter, entitled to have less 
e e 2 



420 



LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE. 



confidence placed in their veracity, than those 
before the Lords ? Or are the Commons more 
perspicacious than they in detecting deception 
and falsehood ? These questions must be answer- 
ed in the affirmative before the utility of oaths 
can be proved ; and though an affirmative answer 
should be given to the first on abstract princi- 
ples, it will be difficult, if not impossible, to sub- 
stantiate it by examples from the records of the 
Houses. 

It will be admitted, that if truth can be as well 
elicited without oaths as with them, it is proper 
to discard them, since evils arise from their 
adoption. Must not unnecessary appeals to the 
Deity, tend to abate the reverence with which 
his name should be mentioned ? And must not 
making him a party in our petty transactions, de- 
rogate from his high attributes? And is it not 
probable that the use of oaths, leads many to be- 
lieve that they may violate truth in common con- 
versation, without being guilty of a breach of 
morality ? Leaving the first two of these ques- 
tions to the reader's reflection, it may not be un- 
important to say a few words on the latter. 
When a person arraigned in a court of justice 
pleads guilty, it is customary for the Judge to re- 
commend him to withdraw the plea, and make 



LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE. 



421 



one of not guilty. Now if the prisoner had been 
sworn to the plea, would the Judge think him- 
self justified in recommending perjury to him? 
If not, how is he to reconcile the recommenda- 
tion of falsehood, one being in the eye of reason 
as evil as the other ? It will be said, that the 
Judge is actuated by humanity and equity, as the 
evidence may be insufficient to convict the pri- 
soner, when, of course, he is entitled to a ver- 
dict of acquittal. But as it would be preposte- 
rous to suppose that an innocent person would 
plead guilty, the conduct of the Judge in recom- 
mending deliberate falsehood, appears as incon- 
sistent as that of a jury, who give a verdict irre- 
concileable with evidence to save a criminal from 
the gallows. But the inference that I wish par- 
ticularly to draw is this, that if a man in the sta- 
tion of Judge, a man of education be it observ- 
ed, and accustomed to reason on right and 
wrong, can in his official capacity recommend 
falsehood, though he would shudder to recom- 
mend perjury, we must suppose that many per- 
sons of inferior endowments, will persuade them- 
selves into the belief, that when not under the 
sanction of an oath, mendacity may be practised 
with impunity. Let oaths be abolished, and 
simple affirmation substituted, and one will soon 
be as sacred as the other. 



\ 



422 LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE. 

In answer to those who think, that many 
amongst the vulgar and ignorant, can never be 
brought to regard their words as sacred without 
an appeal to Divine justice, or rather, without an 
invocation of Divine vengeance, I would sub- 
mit, that it was a prevalent opinion three cen- 
turies ago, that without an abundance of ceremo- 
nials, men would cease to be religious. The Re- 
formation removed much of this false notion, and 
subsequent experience has amply demonstrated 
its futility. Treat men rationally, remove all 
mystery, and they may be governed without the 
influence of superstition. I have shown that 
oaths are frequently disregarded by jurymen and 
other persons above the vulgar herd ; and I know 
of no good reason to suppose, that the ignorant 
are more likely to consider oaths obligatory than 
their better informed neighbours. I appeal to 
every Old Bailey solicitor whether it is not true, 
that oaths may be purchased at a small price of 
some of the most ignorant men in London. 

A conviction is spreading amongst enlightened 
persons in the United States, that oaths are not 
only useless in themselves, but prejudicial to the 
cause of truth. This conviction too is said to 
be spreading amongst those who have the best 
means of judging, I mean the professors of the 



LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE. 423 



law ; and an anticipation has been formed, that 
the time is approaching, when several of the 
States will altogether discard them in judicial 
cases. It is desirable and important, that the 
sentiments of the Americans on the effects of 
those changes made by them in public matters, 
whether relative to government or jurisprudence, 
should be made known in Europe, especially in 
England, that their example may incite or deter 
as experience shall warrant. The prejudices of 
mankind are generally so strong in favour of es- 
tablished customs, that they are reluctant to 
forego them, till there is a clear probability of 
no injury resulting from a change. Erom this 
consideration, the intelligent reader will readily 
excuse the minuteness of my remarks on this sub- 
ject; and therefore, though rather irrelevantly, 
I shall submit to his reflection and examination, 
whether even oaths to perform faithfully the du- 
ties of an office, might not be dispensed with. 
The example of clerks in confidential situations 
in the employ of merchants, may perhaps be al- 
most sufficient to show their needlessness, The 
fidelity of clerks who have made no previous so- 
lemn declaration to that effect, is generally as 
strictly adhered to, as that of government offi- 
cers bound by oath. 



424 LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE. 



Connected with jurisprudence is prison disci- 
pline ; and the Americans valuing themselves 
on the superiority of theirs, it seems needful to 
advert to it. This subject early claimed the at- 
tention of the Pennsylvanians ; and the citizens 
of some of the other States have also thought 
much on the subject. It is one of so much im- 
portance, that philanthropists and statesmen in 
Europe have not been unmindful of it, since the 
time when the benevolent and indefatigable 
Howard, first aroused the public feeling on the 
necessity of improvement in the construction 
and management of jails. His successor Neild 
was of some service ; but in England, little was 
done in effecting a thorough change till very re- 
cently. The publications of Roscoe, Buxton 
and Gurney, in conjunction with the society es- 
tablished in London for a superintendence of the 
subject, have been the means of very considera- 
ble changes and certainly some good being intro- 
duced. Yet it does not appear that prison dis- 
cipline on a right footing has yet been establish- 
ed on either side of the Atlantic. When men 
however think long on a practical subject of a 
simple nature, they generally arrive at a con- 
clusion near the true one. We may therefore 
hope that the reasonings and experience of the 



LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE. 



425 



two countries will soon lead to this desirable 
elflkf 920131 li y. ni i '■■ 
oi hhhoea efitss; ;)i ^eiibiij io ^ 
The Pennsylvanians rightly judging that em- 
ployment for prisoners would be preferable to 
idleness, established manufactures of various 
kinds in their jails. Weaving, shoe making and 
other handicraft and mechanical trades were re- 
gularly taught to the prisoners, who were then 
required to perform a given quantity of work. 
At the expiration of their sentence, a certain 
part of their earnings was returned to them, that 
they might be enabled to purchase tools and im- 
plements necessary to carry on the trade they had 
learnt, and thus at once commence a reputable 
course of life. The jailer and his turnkeys were 
under the inspection of a committee of mana- 
gers, whose duty it was to see that no cruelty or 
needless severity was used to the prisoners. Their 
allowance of food was both ample and good. A 
coarse dress was worn by each when within the 
walls, their own being taken care of till the pe- 
riod of the expiration of their sentence. Good 
beds were placed for their use ; and if they could 
obtain sheets they were allowed to use them. 
There was in this treatment too much of indul- 
gence. It is said that kindness is more influen- 
tial in reclaiming bad characters than harshness. 



426 LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE. 



This probably is the case when those characters 
are convinced of the motives which prompt it $ 
but still it is essential that such a degree of pu- 
nishment be inflicted, as to create a horror of con- 
finement. Prisoners whose comforts are as great 
as at their own houses, will be apt to regard con- 
finement as so slight a punishment, as not to be 
deterred from crime by it. But when as in the 
Jail of Philadelphia, the comforts are even great- 
er, how can it be expected that criminals should 
much dislike it ? The jail certainly exhibits a 
pleasing scene of industry and order ; but its 
discipline has been signally inefficient in reclaim- 
ing its inmates. I enquired of the jailer what 
proportion of the convicts had been in his cus- 
tody before. He said he did not know the exact 
proportion, but that there were more than half, 
and he believed nearly two thirds. This fright- 
ful state of things has convinced many of the 
necessity of a change of system. A new jail is 
in progress of erection, in which it is intended 
to try the effect of solitary confinement without 
labour. This will be a most dreadful punish- 
ment, increasing the horrors of confinement in 
a tenfold ratio. But if carried to the extreme 
contemplated, it will I conceive be productive 
of evils as great as those sought to be removed. 
When a man has been confined solitarily for a 



LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE. 4^7 

long period, without employment corporeal or 
mental, his faculties sink into a state of torpor, 
and sometimes, as was proved in the Bastile, into 
idiotism. It seems to me, that solitary confine- 
ment if the period be short, may effect much 
good ; if long, much evil. Unless therefore an 
alteration take place in the existing laws, in the 
apportionment of punishment to crime, they will 

be oppressive and unjust. 

. 

The first object of punishment, it is contend- 
ed, ought to be the reformation of the criminal. 
This is I think a mistake. Surely the first ob- 
ject, as has I believe been argued in the Edin- 
burgh Review, is the protection of society. Pu- 
nishment therefore should be of a nature to deter 
not only the criminal from a repetition of his of- 
fences, but others from committing the like ; and 
if at the same time, a moral reformation can be 
effected in his character, it is of prodigious im- 
portance that it should be attempted. But un- 
less it can be shown, that this moral reformation 
is the most effectual in protecting society from a 
violation of the laws, I must think that it is only 
a secondary object. As it is supposed by many, 
that solitary confinement is conducive not only to 
moral reformation, but is a terror to evil doers, 
it may be exceedingly proper to adopt it on a 



428 



LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE. 



limited scale, though I much question whether 
the improvement anticipated will be realized. 
That moral reformation alone is insufficient to 
secure society from a repetition of offences, will 
be evident from a consideration of the frailty of 
human nature. Suppose a prisoner under the 
discipline of a taskmaster, and from the effect 
of religious exhortation, to have become so en- 
tirely changed in his views,as to be as desirous 
of acting properly as he was before careless about 
it, does it follow that he will never relapse into 
his disregard of moral rectitude ? Human na- 
ture, alas ! is too prone to evil for us to suppose 
it. He finds, when set at liberty, that he is no 
longer what he was. His acquaintances of un- 
blemished reputation shun him ; but as he is na- 
turally desirous of some society, he gradually 
slides into familiarity with the bad, rather than 
have none. Temptation soon assails him, and 
then, if the horrors of the jail are not before his 
eyes, he is very likely to yield to it. If he has 
been in a prison conducted on what is called the 
comfortable system, this is almost sure to be the 
case, as he remembers the days of his confine- 
ment with a degree of indifference as to their 
renewal. The great number of recommitments 
in the Philadelphian jail, is a proof of this. At 
Baltimore and Richmond, Ifound on enquiry, that 



LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE. 



429 



the recommitments were in a smaller ratio than 
at Philadelphia ; butin the jails in those cities, the 
punishment is severer than in the latter. These 
particulars may be of some use, as the example 
of America respecting prisons has been often 
urged in England, more especially when it is 
considered, that the system adopted at Philadel- 
phia, which has been represented as conspicuous- 
ly efficacious in reforming criminals, is shortly to 
be superseded by one of a totally different nature, 
owing to the complete failure of the one hitherto 
used. It is needful to guard against the errors 
into which benevolent and humane persons fall, 
as well as into those of foolish and hard-hearted 
ones. The former class have done mischief on 
the subject of prison discipline, and are now de- 
sirous of repairing it. 1 wish that their new 
system may be so judiciously regulated, as to 
avoid errors of an opposite kind, but which may 
be no less fatal. I have however my fears con- 
cerning it, fears which I expressed to some of its 
promoters, and can therefore have no objection 
to repeat. 

Before closing this chapter, it is proper to add 
that the administration of law is in general im- 
partial, at least as impartial as in most other 
countries. I heard I confess some very strong 



430 LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE. 



complaints of the contrary, but I paid little re- 
gard to them, as they were from persons evi- 
dently prejudiced. From this general character, 
I regret to state that exceptions must be made 
as it respects the coloured people, who are not 
always sure of receiving even that limited mea- 
sure of j ustice to which they are entitled. Pre- 
judice often leads the person under its influence 
into partiality, while at the same he is uncon- 
scious of its bias. 

Though the bench has never been disgraced 
in America by such men as Tresillian and Jef- 
feries, numbers have been raised to it little qua- 
lified for the station. One reason and probably 
the chief reason is, that the salaries attached to 
the office of judge are in most cases inadequate 
to tempt men of the first talents to accept it ; a 
fatal mistake which the Americans have made, 
owing to that niggardly feeling in regard to 
needful expenses so remarkable in the different 
States. In New York, a judge on attaining the age 
of sixty years, must vacate his seat. This appears 
a foolish and unwise regulation, the mental fa- 
culties being seldom impaired at that age. Lord 
Mansfield, when on the bench at upwards of 
eighty years of age, was sufficiently clear-headed; 
and in fact it is impossible to fix on the average 



LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE. 



431 



time when decay commences. But what ren- 
ders this regulation particularly objectionable is> 
that these discarded judges have no pension al- 
lowed them. Hence, if they have not secured 
a competency for their future subsistence, which 
can seldom be the case, they must return to the 
practice of the profession, perhaps even as attor- 
neys, owing to the small division of labour, the 
same man in many cases being attorney, notary, 
conveyancer, proctor and barrister. Can it then 
be matter of surprise, that persons the most ca- 
pable of fulfilling the judicial functions, are often 
amongst those who are the least willing to un- 
dertake them ? I consider that the low salaries 
in the United States, are discreditable to the 
American people. Montesquieu speaks of the 
virtue of republics : a more conspicuous trait 
is their parsimony. 



CHAPTER XXIX. 

MANUFACTURES AND COMMERCE. 

America is, and necessarily must be, chiefly an 
agricultural country, the population not being 
sufficiently dense to enable her to compete with 
the manufacturing countries of Europe, except 
in goods of coarse fabric. Of these, cotton is 
the staple, the greatest manufactory of which is 
I believe established at Waltham near Boston. 
I regret much that I did not visit it, but some 
untoward circumstance operated to prevent me. 
It is said by persons who have visited the cotton 
mills in Manchester, to be equal to any of them 
in every respect ; a fact, to which I can give 
full credit from the state of those on the Brandy- 
wine in Delaware, several of which I inspected, 
and found in a fine state as to the machinery 
employed. On the same river, there are gun- 
powder and flour mills. The latter are vastly 
superior to any I ever saw in England, not even 
excepting the much praised steam mills in the 
outskirts of London. The saving of manual la- 
bour in these mills was quite surprising to me, 
the whole process from the hopper being effected 



MANUFACTURES AND COMMERCE. 433 

by machinery, with the exception of filling the 
barrels, for which hands are in requisition. The 
meal is conveyed into a long trough in which 
a cylinder works. This cylinder being sur- 
rounded by diagonal flyers, the meal is moved 
to one end of the trough where it is transferred 
into small revolving buckets, which elevate it to 
an upper floor, emptying it there as they de- 
scend. By means of an instrument like a harrow, 
which is placed in a circular box or tub, the 
mealis then kept in motion till it is sufficiently 
cool for the last operation of dressing or bolting. 
This is done with silk cloths of Dutch manufac- 
ture, which are preferred by the millers to Eng- 
lish worsted cloths or wires, and certainly answer 
their purpose remarkably well. The flour is 
pressed into the barrel by means of a board 
nearly the size of the rim, fixed in a frame at- 
tached to a lever, the power of moving which is 
obtained from the water wheel. 

A chemical laboratory at Baltimore which I 
inspected is on a tolerably large scale. Its suc- 
cess may be in degree determined, by the fact 
that the proprietors have made exports to Eng- 
land, Holland and Germany of several of their 
articles. Calomel, blue vitriol, alum, and yellow 
chrome are manufactured by them in large quan- 

F F 



434 MANUFACTURES AND COMMERCE, 

tities. The acting partner in the concern is an 
Englishman with whom I became acquainted 
when we were boys. I renewed my acquaint- 
ance with him when I was at Baltimore, and re- 
ceived from him so much polite attention and 
hospitable entertainment, that I take this oppor- 
tunity of expressing my acknowledgments to 
him. I wish he may succeed prosperously in his 
American undertaking, and see no reason to 
doubt that he will. When we consider that few, 
very few Englishmen, have found manufactures - 
profitable in the United States, considerable cre- 
dit must be given to those who establish such as 
are profitable. 

I saw a satinnet manufactory on a large scale 
at a small town in New Jersey. The carding, 
spinning, weaving and dyeing are all carried on 
at this establishment. The acting proprietor, a 
young Irishman, showed me every part of it, the 
whole concern being as I thought, creditable to 
him. I saw gun manufactories at Ithaca in 
New York, and at Harper's Ferry in Virginia. 
The latter is an establishment belonging to the 
United States Government, and is celebrated for 
its lathe for turning gun-stocks. In ship-build- 
ing the Americans equal or surpass every other 
people. Finer ships were never launched than 



MANUFACTURES AND COMMERCE. 435 

the packets which sail between New York and 
Liverpool. The cabin of one I was on board, 
surpassed in beauty and finish any thing I had 
previously imagined. I do not believe that 
Cleopatra's galley, splendid as it was, was half 
so beautiful. 

From the comparative high price of labour, the 
ingenuity of the Americans has been exercised 
in inventing machines, and when invented they 
have been easily brought into operation, the in- 
ventors having little or nothing to fear from their 
introduction, owing to the circumstance of the 
paucity of manufactures, the immediate subsist- 
ence of thousands not being, as has been feared 
in England, in danger of being taken away by 
them. Hence it is, that some machines have 
been invented and used in America superior to 
those in England. Those for making cards, 
screws, and nails, are particularly praised for 
their exactness, besides a number for sundry 
processes in the woollen and cotton branches. 
There is a machine for making pins at Philadel- 
pia so complete in itself, that a piece of wire of 
the proper length being put in, it becomes in 
passing through a perfect pin, headed and point- 
ed. Probably art will be able to go little beyond 
this. The patent office at Washington where 

F F 2 



436 MANUFACTURES AND COMMERCE. 



models are deposited, is a glorious display of 
American ingenuity, inferior only to the similar 
establishment ' at the Abbey of St. Martin in 
Paris. " M 

If the government acting on the principles of 
modern political economists, leave manufactures 
to establish themselves, they will spring up as 
they are wanted, and become profitable to the 
country ; but if their establishment be forced by 
prohibitory import duties, the trade of the coun- 
try will decay, and sooner or later, the evil of 
such short-sighted policy will be deplored. Smug- 
gling would soon be introduced with its conco- 
mitant demoralization ; the southern and north- 
ern States would view each other no longer with 
the friendly regard now so 1 happily prevailing ; 
and if a relaxation became expedient, a concen- 
trated population would fall into those excesses 
and outrages which have so often disgraced the 
large towns in the north of England, and terri- 
fied the peaceable inhabitants. 

The foreign commerce is at present very great. 
American ships sail in every sea from China to 
Peru, from Nootka to Australia. No chartered 
companies with exclusive privileges being esta- 
blished, individual talent and enterprise have full 



MANUFACTURES AND COMMERCE. 437 

scope, the beneficial effects of which are sensi- 
bly felt by the public at large, as well as by the 
mercantile interest. The merchant can offer his 
tea for instance, on lower terms than the East 
India Company, though taking all circumstances 
into account, that body ought to be able to sup- 
ply England with it at a cheaper rate than is paid 
by the Americans. A considerable portion of 
the American trade with China is carried on by 
adventurers, who often make very profitable voy- 
ages. Sailing from Nantucket with a few arti- 
cles of European manufacture, they exchange 
them at the Feejee and Sandwich Islands for pro- 
visions and sandal wood, and on the north-west 
of their own continent for furs. With these they 
steer for China, and barter them for tea. Some- 
times they will take a cargo adapted for the 
South American market, which when disposed of 
for dollars, and the proceeds expended in tea, 
yields a good return. Tea however is not the only 
commodity they obtain at Canton. Nankeens 
and crapes sometimes make a fair portion of 
their cargo. 

It would be useless to enter into many parti- 
culars of their extensive traffic with the Baltic, 
the Mediterranean and other parts of the eastern 
hemisphere. Suffice it to say that their flag is 



438 MANUFACTURES AND COMMERCE. 

as well known and respected as the British or the 
French. Having no export duties to pay, and 
their port charges being moderate, they can ge- 
nerally compete with the merchants of any other 
country. It is probable that in another half cen- 
tury, perhaps in a much shorter period, they will 
cease to import salt, iron and coals, they having 
mines of those articles. Though that should be 
the case they still must carry on a large trade 
with England, as it will be impossible for them 
to manufacture many articles on so good terms 
as we can supply them with. All their restrict- 
ive laws, if they should adopt such, would fail 
to prevent it. It has often appeared very sur- 
prising to me, that they should export such pro- 
digious cargoes of linseed to Ireland. Why the 
Irish farmers, who have of late years complain- 
ed so loudly of their distress, should be unable 
to supply their country with this seed, when the 
foreign pays a high duty to the government, I 
cannot comprehend. 

Whenever the West India islands become in- 
dependent of the European powers to which they 
are now subject (and that their independence 
sooner or later will take place, who can doubt ?) 
the Americans will carry on a traffic with them 
much greater than they now do. All the West 



MANUFACTURES AND COMMERCE. 439 

India productions are wanted in the United 
States ; and where but from the American con- 
tinent can the West Indians look for a supply of 
salt provisions, flour, and several sorts of timber? 
At present the trade between them is much re- 
stricted by the high import duties levied by the 
British government ; a policy unfair to the West 
Indians, and which may eventually be injurious 
to them in a still greater degree, by raising com- 
petitors for the European market in sugar, indi- 
go and sundry other commodities. Most West 
India products might be cultivated in the States 
bordering the Gulf of Mexico. Already much 
sugar is made in Louisiana ; and if the restric- 
tions continue, the culture of the sugar-cane will 
extend into Alabama and Florida. So true is it, 
that whenever legislation is improperly directed, 
its object in some way or other is thwarted. 
This the Americans will experience, if ever the 
suggestion of the President to exclude Euro- 
pean manufactures be carried, or attempted to 
be carried, into effect. 

From the extent of territory, diversity of cli- 
mate, difference in population, and other causes, 
the trade carried on between the different States 
in the Union is very great, the fine rivers contri- 
buting to it most materially. The produce from 



440 MANUFACTURES AND COMMERCE. 

the upper parts of Pennsylvania, conveyed by the 
Susquehanna into the Bay of Chesapeake, and 
along its margin is enormous. This has induced 
the Philadelphians to project the forming of a 
canal to unite the Susquehanna and the Dela- 
ware, in order to secure to themselves a portion 
of that trade of their own State which is now in 
a great measure monopolised by Baltimore and 
Annapolis. Another canal is also in contem- 
plation, which may be perhaps of still more im- 
portance to the country, namely, one to unite 
the Ohio with the Potowmac. Such a canal 
passing through Washington, would have more 
than most other things a strong tendency to 
unite the western States with the southern, a 
point which to every American statesman must 
be obviously of first-rate importance. I have 
already alluded to the canal between Lake Erie 
and the Hudson. This great work will also great- 
ly advantage the relations of the country. With- 
in a very short time from the period of my writ- 
ing, an inland navigable communication will be 
opened between New York and New Orleans. 
What a wonderful alteration will this be from 
America as it was only twenty years ago ! It 
proclaims in audible language, that the Ameri- 
cans are equal in enterprise to any people in the 
world. 



MANUFACTURES AND COMMERCE. 441 

The dealers in the western parts, resort to the 
cities on the coast twice in the year, to lay in a 
stock of manufactured goods. Accordingly for 
two or three weeks every spring and autumn, 
New York and Philadelphia exhibit a very bust- 
ling scene, though not equal to that at the fairs 
of Leipsic and Frankfort. It is at such times 
that strangers should if possible contrive to visit 
those cities, as they are then in the way of meet- 
ing with persons from a very great distance in- 
land, of whom they may learn much valuable 
information. These half-yearly assemblages are 
the chief I believe that occur in the country ; 
as there are neither fairs nor corn-markets. It 
would surely be advantageous for the farmers in a 
neighbourhood to meet together once a week, as 
they might diffuse information amongst each other 
to their common benefit. It seems therefore 
extraordinary that they should omit to establish 
markets. At present, if a farmer wishes to dis- 
pose of his produce, he must take a sample from 
house to house till he finds a purchaser ; this 
cannot be so convenient to either party as a ge- 
neral meeting in open market. 

Much of the traffic in the newly settled parts 
is transacted by barter owing to the want of spe- 
cie. The whole circulating medium in those 



442 MANUFACTURES AND COMMERCE. 

parts is bank-paper, silver and gold being as rare 
as in England they are plentiful. Even in parts 
more populous silver is far from plentiful. How 
indeed should it, when the banks issue notes as 
low as a dollar each. In Virginia, the Assembly 
has prohibited notes of a lower denomination 
than five dollars, the good effects of which may be 
easily conceived. But the most surprising thing 
connected with the currency is, that there are 
scarcely any copper coins. The poor must I 
should think often feel the want of them. The 
reason why the government has been so remiss 
in neglecting to provide a sufficiency, I cannot 
tell, unless it be owing to its poverty ; for the 
metal may be had in abundance from England, 
Russia, and other countries. 

The coasting trade is very great. The north- 
ern and southern States vary so much in climate, 
and of course in natural productions, that an in- 
terchange of commodities is mutually essential 
to their prosperity ; and there being no duties of 
any kind on the goods of one State when carried 
into another, all the evils arising from fluctu- 
ations are remedied, as well as jealousies and 
contentions prevented. Some idea may be form- 
ed of the extent of traffic between the different 
parts of the Union, from the circumstance of 



MANUFACTURES AND COMMERCE. 443 

there being a regular steam-packet between New 
York and New Orleans, notwithstanding the 
prodigious distance of those cities from each 
other. This packet touches at Charleston and 
the Havannah, to lay in a fresh stock of fuel ; 
and the trade with Cuba being considerable, 
many persons take passage to and from the latter 
place. 

It is very remarkable, that a people so active 
and enterprising as the Americans, should not 
attempt to cultivate and bring to perfection many 
of those productions for which they are now in- 
debted to foreign countries. The vine indeed 
has been tried in Pennsylvania by Germans com- 
petent to its proper culture, but without success. 
But surely many parts of the southern States 
must be adapted to it both as it respects soil and 
climate: yet France and Madeira supply the 
whole country with wine. The olive would I 
apprehend flourish equally with the vine. I 
should suppose that the coffee tree would thrive 
in the southern parts of East Florida, and that 
the tea tree would grow in any of those parts 
which are south of thirty-five degrees of latitude. 
And why should it be necessary for them to re- 
sort to the Levant for a supply of currants and 
figs ? There cannot be a doubt I think, that 



444 MANUFACTURES AND COMMERCE. 

some important changes in these respects will ere 
long take place ; changes which may be bene- 
ficial to England as well as America, for the 
greater the intercourse between the two coun- 
tries, the better it will I trust be for both. It 
would in particular be advantageous to England 
to be able to obtain a supply of tea from Ame- 
rica, the trade with China, owing to the restric- 
tions of the imperial government, being less 
profitable than that with countries adopting a 
liberal policy. 



CHAPTER XXX. 



THE FINE ARTS. 



The reader may smile at the mention of the 
fine arts in America ; yet I cannot properly pass 
them over without a slight notice. The Ameri- 
cans hitherto have had so much to do in neces- 
sary works, that they have had but little leisure 
to attend to the merely ornamental. They have 
had so many roads to form, so many bridges to 
build, so much land to clear, that it would have 
been wonderful indeed, if they had become emi- 
nent as sculptors and painters. I have not heard 
of a single American sculptor, but West long 
since became famous as a painter, and within 
these few years several American artists have de- 
lighted Europe. The most remarkable thing 
connected with them is, that their own country 
offers so little encouragement to them, that 
nearly all of them are obliged to settle in a fo- 
reign land. When I was at New York, endea- 
vours were used to persuade persons to purchase 
tickets, to view a painting which was then exhi- 
biting for the benefit of the artist, that a suffi- 
cient sum might be raised to enable him to pro- 



446 



THE FINE ARTS. 



ceed to England. So little do the Americans en- 
courage their native artists, that it is a rare 
thing to see even a portrait in a private house ; 
and their public edifices have few of any kind. 
The Capitols of Virginia and Pennsylvania are 
almost destitute of them : that of New York has 
a full length portrait of Washington, and of se- 
veral of the State governors : that of the United 
States has two historical paintings of very inter- 
esting subjects, one being the signing of the 
Declaration of Independence, the other the final 
surrender of the British troops to the American, 
by which the revolutionary war was terminated. 
I must say however, that these two paintings 
appeared to me to be too much of daubs to be 
placed in the Capitol. The painting exhibited 
at New York was of St. Paul preaching at 
Athens. The execution, so far as I could judge, 
was, with one or two defects, such as would re- 
flect credit on painters of more practice than the 
young man whose performance it was. But the 
design, exemplified a remark made by Dr. Adam 
Clarke, in one of his notes on the Bible, that 
painters are bad commentators. To produce 
effect, they depart from probability. In this 
painting, as in almost all those taken from scrip- 
ture, figures are introduced in situations quite 
unnatural. The same fault is particularly con- 



THE FINE ARTS. 



447 



spicuous in West's painting of Christ Rejected, 
where a woman is lying on the cross in a way- 
very unlikely to have been the case. Who 
amongst painters except Teniers, deserves the 
character of being a follower of nature ? In se- 
veral of the museums are some paintings credit- 
able to the country. 

The museums themselves may properly be 
here noticed. In Boston, New York, Philadel- 
phia, Baltimore and Richmond, are museums of 
curiosities natural and artificial. Peele's Mu- 
seum in Philadelphia is considered the best in 
the United States. It has treasures, of use to 
the geologist, the ornithologist, the zoographer 
and the antiquarian. To compare it with the 
British Museum in London, or that in the Gar- 
den of Plants in Paris, would be unfair, yet it 
may be believed, that few cities of the same mag- 
nitude in either England or France can show one 
superior. Some great additions are however re- 
quisite in the departments of entomology and mi- 
neralogy. 

The only public exhibition of a collection of 
paintings by living artists that I saw or heard of, 
was that of the Academy of Arts of Philadel- 
phia. It appeared to me to be a very creditable 



448 



THE FINE ARTS. 



exhibition. The number of pictures was about 
the same as that in the annual exhibition at Nor- 
wich, and the talent displayed also much on a 
par. Philadelphia however, be it observed, con- 
tains a population more than double that of Nor- 
wich, and is the metropolis of a State as large 
as England, whereas Norwich, though the capi- 
tal of a county, is a city of only third rate im- 
portance. This is not mentioned with any invi- 
dious feeling, but with a view of giving a just 
idea of the progress of the fine arts in America. 

I have mentioned that in several of the cities 
ornamental architecture has been in requisition 
to embellish the public buildings. I have little 
to add on this subject ; yet it is right to state, 
that in some of the rising villages and small 
towns, a similar attention to beauty is apparent. 
In the western parts of New York in particular, 
I was much struck with the elegance of some of 
the church spires. 

The University of Virginia at Charlottesville 
is a large building, in which the architect has 
properly displayed all the different orders. Per- 
haps it may be called a beautiful building, though 
I cannot think that its construction is such as to 
manifest good taste. It has five divisions united 



THE FINE ARTS. 449 

by colonnades, each of which divisions separate* 
ly viewed seems elegant and complete ; but there 
being no symmetry observed in their combina- 
tion, the general effect is displeasing. Except 
when viewed from a distance, it appears too much 
like a number of distinct buildings ; a fault which 
I regard as capital, since whatever can be taken 
in at one glance should have uniformity and com- 
pleteness. The plan of a city should be diver- 
sified ; that of a large edifice correspondent in 
the parts. 

The room in which the House of Representa- 
tives assemble in the Capitol of Washington is 
one of the finest rooms in the world. This may be 
thought a strong expression, but I believe that 
all who have entered it will concur in its justice. 
It is semicircular ; and the speaker's chair being 
placed in the centre of the diametrical line, the 
members are ranged in semicircles round him. 
The roof is supported by marble pillars, crimson 
curtains hanging in festoons being between them. 
Over the speaker's chair is a gigantic female fi- 
gure, which is I believe intended to be emblema- 
tical of America. The floor being carpeted, no- 
thing seems wanting to the comfort and conve- 
nience of the members, or to the elegant finish 
of the room. It has however one most unfortu- 

G G 



450 



THE FINE ARTS. 



nate defect. The voice of the orator who is ad- 
dressing the house is often lost in reverberation. 
No corrective has hitherto been found for this 
defect. I have seen rooms larger and more splen- 
did than this ; but I never saw one which seem- 
ed more completely to unite beauty and grandeur 
with utility. 

We are indebted to America for great im- 
provements in engraving, and particularly for 
the application of steel to that beautiful art ; yet 
the number of prints executed in the country is 
comparatively few. Those which are inserted 
in the editions of English books republished in 
New York, Philadelphia and Boston are com- 
monly of very contemptible execution. I was 
shown however one or two works to which I could 
not refuse my praise, they being such as would 
have done honour to any artist. Lithography 
has been but recently introduced. 



4 



CHAPTER XXXI. 

MORALS. 

A person who after travelling in New England 
makes his way into Maryland and Virginia, may 
soon perceive that he is in a district less moral 
in several particulars than that he has left. How 
much of this difference is attributable to slavery, 
I shall not now enquire ; but the fact should be 
remembered. The New Englanders, though 
very circumspect in their general deportment, 
are taxed by their southern neighbours with du- 
plicity manifesting itself in low cunning. There 
may perhaps be good ground for a partial charge 
of this nature, but I am of opinion that the na- 
tives of the southern States, instead of railing 
against the ambidextrous New Englanders, ought 
rather to charge themselves with a want of per- 
spicacity, since if they are often duped, the fault 
is mainly their own. The cause of those of the 
south entertaining a bad opinion of their north- 
ern neighbours, is, that nearly all the pedlers 
amongst them are from New England ; and ped- 
lers being men who in all countries thrive by * 
meanness and trickery, they have been the means 
g g 2 



452 



MORALS. 



of raising suspicions respecting the character of 
the natives of New England generally. As far 
as my observations went, the people of the north 
taken collectively may vie with those of the 
other districts ; for if it be admitted that they 
have amongst them a more than medium portion 
of persons prone to base artifice, the people of 
the midland and southern States, may be accused 
of drunkenness and some other vices to an ex- 
tent beyond that perceptible in New England. 

Drunkenness has been said to be the great 
vice of the Americans. It must however be 
confined very much to the labouring classes. 
The upper class appeared to me to be very tem- 
perate, the middle bibacious more than health 
requires, and the lower only, justly chargeable 
with ebriety. As a people, the Americans are 
certainly not so sober as the French or Germans, 
but perhaps are about on a level with the Irish. 
However a tradesman at Georgetown, who was 
I believe a druggist though styled a doctor, a 
man of intelligence and respectability, assured 
me that it had been ascertained past doubt, that 
in the District of Columbia there are more pints; 
of whiskey consumed than pounds of flour ! If 
this be the fact, and he told me that I might 
rely on it, it implies a still lower state of mora- 



MORALS. 



f 

453 



lily in this particular than I have assigned to 
them. 

Profanity of language prevails to a most shock- 
ing extent in all parts. As I was walking in 
Providence, my attention was arrested by the 
horrid expressions used by the children at play 
in the streets. They were as voluble in oaths 
and curses as hoary sinners ; a lamentable de- 
gradation, for not correcting which I must think 
the schoolmasters and clergy- are to be blamed. 
The educated in many places seem as prone to 
profanity as the ignorant. The Americans want 
some man amongst them with the energy and 
zeal of Whitfield, whose abhorrence of such lan- 
guage was so great, that he once, it is said, be- 
gan a sermon by uttering imprecations on the 
congregation to convince them of its offensive 
and impious nature, and then changing his tone 
after the manner of Sterne's sermon on the house 
of mourning, thundered denunciations on those 
who were guilty of it. 

I have been surprised to find in some of the 
publications respecting America, a charge, or at 
least an insinuation, that honesty is a virtue so 
little respected amongst the natives, that few of 
them, even of the upper rank, were to be impli- 



454 



MORALS. 



citly confided in. How this unworthy idea ori- 
ginated I cannot say ; but it appeared to me not 
substantiated by any thing I saw or heard. 
The facility of obtaining a livelihood by honest 
industry is so great, that temptations to petty 
thefts are not so strong as in countries more 
populous ; and I saw no reason to believe that 
the rich are more suspicious of their poor neigh- 
bours than the people of England, though I must 
confess that I believe the American poor are not 
so generally clear of an addiction to pilfering as 
the French. On the other hand, candour re- 
quires me to state, that during my abode in the 
country, I never, whether in public or private 
houses, was in the habit of fastening my bed 
room door, having no fear of losing any thing. 
The upper class seemed to have that frank con- 
fidence in each other, which is the best proof of 
general good character. The great hospitality 
which they so often manifest to entire strangers, 
is another proof corroborative of it, since they 
must become suspicious, if their kindness were 
often infringed on by unprincipled men. 

Amongst the upper class however, gambling 
is very prevalent, more especially amongst those 
of the southern States. The same may be said 
of duelling, which has unfortunately been in fa- 



MORALS. 



455 



shion to a much greater degree than in any coun- 
try in Europe. That so disgraceful a remnant of 
semi-barbarity should be continued amongst ci- 
vilized men, may justly excite our wonder and 
pity. I know indeed, that some persons think 
that the practice may as well be continued, as it 
occasionally rids society of a few, whose fiery spi- 
rits not being under the restraint of reason, are 
as well removed. Yet surely when we consider 
how much distress it occasions in families, and 
how greatly it tends to prevent an amicable ad- 
justment of differences, it is better to convince 
men of its uselessness, impolicy and wickedness, 
than to attempt to uphold it on some supposed 
grounds of its benefit to society. If a man re- 
ceives a real injury from his neighbour, the laws 
are competent to his redress, or at least, are more 
competent to it than duelling. If he subjects 
himself to an insult for which no legal remedy is 
obtainable, it is better, in spite of what is urged 
to the contrary by men of pretended acute ho- 
nour, for him to submit to it, and trust to his ge- 
neral past and future conduct as a security for 
the approbation of his associates, rather than to 
hazard his life and that of a fellow being. Nor 
would such tame, inglorious submission be de- 
trimental to the best interests of society. A spi- 
rit would be manifested in favour of anaggriev- 



456 



MORALS. 



ed individual, far more valuable than that arising 
from the partial approbation bestowed for the 
maintenance of honour by outrageous means. 
When nations become completely civilized duel- 
ling must cease. Law can never tolerate it, and 
that civilization is incomplete where law is not 
paramount. As to the notion of obtaining sa- 
tisfaction for an insult, by the party's meeting 
me with a loaded pistol, what sort of satisfaction 
is that ? If I kill my opponent, surely I must 
be a savage indeed to find satisfaction in having 
committed murder. If he kills me, is it, or can 
it be, a satisfaction to my friends to hear of my 
death ? Duelling was instituted at a time when 
the principles of morals being imperfectly un- 
derstood, false notions of right and wrong had 
possession of the public mind ; and it has been 
continued by fashion, whose influence is so pre- 
dominant that few minds have been sufficiently 
strong to resist and despise it. However much 
Europe may be indebted to Charles V. and Fran- 
cis I., it cannot be forgotten that it was to their 
example, that duelling became so extensive and 
general. Happy will it be for mankind, when 
we can truly say in the words of Burke, that 
" the age of chivalry is gone;" for notwithstand- 
ing its beautiful appearance, it was unfit for cul- 
tivated man, however adapted in several respects 



MORALS. 



457 



to inspire generous sentiments in the breasts of 
rude warriors. Man is said to be as naturally 
pugnacious as he is selfish. It is the province 
of civilization to correct the waywardness of na- 
ture, and make it submissive to the common in- 
terest, as the skilful gardener renders wild and 
sour fruit trees capable of bearing fruit deli- 
cious to the palate. The American philosophers 
and legislators ought to endeavour to mould the 
dispositions of their countrymen into the pliabi- 
lity requisite in an enlightened age ; then will 
the nation become more and more a pattern to 
the rest of the world. Duelling though not so 
atrocious as assassination is nearly allied to it. 
Unhappily the Americans are as addicted to the 
one as the Spaniards to the other. I am glad to 
learn that the Assembly of South Carolina has 
recently taken the subject into its consideration 
with a view to 'enact measures to produce the 
total extinction of it. 

Female prostitution is I believe less general 
in America than in most European countries. 
Scotland and Wales are probably the only two 
that may be said to be as free from it as Ame- 
rica. The coloured girls in the southern States 
are however to be excepted from the general mo- 
ral character of the sex throughout the country, 



458 



MORALS. 



the reason for which is, that they are not taught 
to respect themselves and value modesty. The 
white women of respectability take care to in- 
fluence by their example and instructions those 
of their own colour, but seem very regardless of 
bringing to a proper sense of the value of repu- 
tation, those whose complexion is less fair than 
their own. This inattention on their part, is the 
cause of the seduction of a coloured girl being 
passed by as a harmless thing, while that of a 
white girl is regarded as a very heinous crime. 
A tradesman at Fredericsburg told me, that the 
seduction of a coloured girl was the almost in- 
variable result of her settling in that town. A 
mulatto at Petersburg, by trade a barber, replied 
to my enquiry why he did not marry, that no 
white woman would consent to receive his ad- 
dresses, and that amongst those of his own co- 
lour, there were only three in the town whose 
chastity was unimpeached. When making en- 
quiry respecting the state of morals at Norfolk, 
I received an account nearly as bad. In the 
northern States on the contrary, the seduction 
of a coloured girl is as rare as that of a white, 
and prostitution in general is less conspicuous 
than in some parts of Maryland and Virginia. 

Crimes of great magnitude, such as murder, 



31 ORALS. 



459 



burglary and the like, are I believe as little to 
be dreaded by the peaceable inhabitants, as in 
most other countries. I take a pleasure in stat- 
ing this, as from the accounts published by some 
of our countrymen, it might be inferred that 
America is the land of lawless rapine. During 
my whole journey, I heard of no alarming out- 
rages except by some incendiaries in Philadel- 
phia. The inhabitants in general seemed to be 
as little afraid of aggression, as were the people 
of the poetical Golden Age. 



XX TJSfL! 



CHAPTER XXXIL 

NATIONAL CHARACTER. 

From the antecedent chapters of this work, a to- 
lerably correct estimate of the national charac- 
ter of the Americans, may I believe be formed. 
But as some advantage may arise from a concen- 
trated view, and as some traits have not yet been 
alluded to, I shall endeavour in this chapter to 
give such a sketch as may correspond with the 
plan hitherto adopted. I am very sensible of the 
mistakes into which writers prone to generaliza- 
tion are apt to fall ; but as my opportunities of 
forming a right judgment were as considerable 
as could reasonably be expected in the time I 
had, and as candour will guide my pen, I trust 
that I shall be found in general to be correct. 
The repetition of a few particulars, will, under 
this consideration, be excused by the reader who 
has had the patience to accompany me regularly 
thus far. I must premise that considerable di- 
versity prevails in the different districts of the 
country. Yet as the general outline is sufficiently 
correspondent to enable something of a common 
character to be applicable to them all, I do not 



NATIONAL CHARACTER, 4(>1 



think that much inconvenience will arise from 
placing them in one group. It is however abso- 
lutely necessary to keep the blacks distinct from 
the whites, as the two races are not at present so 
incorporated as to be one people. In the first 
place therefore, let me attempt to describe the 
blacks. 

Being chiefly in menial situations, and in all 
parts ranked below the whites, the blacks have 
had little opportunity of becoming polished and 
educated ; and taking every thing into account 
connected with their comparative disadvantages, 
I think we ought rather to wonder that their cha- 
racter is so fair as it is, than that it is no better. 
So long as men are excluded from the society of 
those more refined and better informed than 
themselves, they cannot be expected to advance 
otherwise than slowlyin the improvement of their 
minds and manners. In mental cultivation the 
blacks are particularly deficient. Of the thou- 
sands amongst them who possess a nominal free- 
dom, I question whether there are half a dozen 
who have had a liberal, classical education. I 
heard of only two who had been so fortunate, to 
neither of whom did I chance to get introduced. 
Several of those however with whom I conversed 
showed themselves equal to the whites in a simi- 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



lar station, and two or three I thought rather su- 
perior. One man in particular who told me that 
he was born a slave, showed a degree of good 
sense and reason very pleasing. In their mo- 
rals, thev are nearlv on a level with the whites, 
except the female coloured girls in the southern 
States who have certainly more lubricity than the 
white girls. As far as regularity in the attend- 
ance of public worship is a proof of being reli- 
gious, the coloured people may safely be com- 
pared with the rest of the community, and pro- 
nounced as religious as any. 

In the slave States they are very obsequious 
in their behaviour, scarcely daring to pass a white 
man on the road without making some token in- 
dicative of his superiority. I do not now allude to 
the slaves, but to those who have obtained their 
freedom, for the slaves seem to be as much afraid 
of their masters as Caliban of Prospero, and are 
treated in their turn as contemptuously as Shak- 
speare describes that hag-begotten monster to 
have been, with the exception however of such of 
them as are retained as domestic servants. In 
the free States, the blacks assume a freer deport- 
ment, and which to whites who travel from the 
south to the north is very annoying. I heard 
some persons from New Orleans complain loudly 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



463 



of the insolence of the blacks of New York, in 
presuming to take the wall in walking the streets, 
instead of always yielding it to the whites. But 
as to any real insolence, I must say that I noticed 
as little of it in them as in the whites of the 
working class. Amongst the blacks of the better 
sort, I met several whose behaviour was entitled 
to a higher epithet than civil ; it was, though not 
very polished, decorous and respectfully atten- 
tive. Having a desire to attend a sitting of the 
Conference of the Methodist church of the co- 
loured people, I waited on the chairman, and re- 
quested as a favour that I might be allowed to 
enter the room. They usually sit with closed 
doors ; but my request was complied with. On 
entering, I was invited to take a seat near the 
chairman. I did so, and both then and at other 
times, when I conversed with him, I found that 
he could demean himself in a very agreeable 
manner. A minister amongst the Baptists, with 
whom I held a lengthened conversation, seemed 
also to be of pleasing manners. And I saw a man 
at Alexandria in the District of Columbia, who 
had as captivating behaviour as I have often seen. 
I believe I may say that I was more struck with 
his elegance, than with that of any white in the 
town, though I was at the houses of some of the 
more wealthy inhabitants. 



464 



NATIONAL CHARACTER* 



It is said of the blacks by their white brethren, 
that they are incapable of that elevation of soul, 
that lofty enthusiasm, without which men cannot 
be ranked high in the scale of existence. It is 
certain that but few indications of such a spirit 
have yet manifested themselves amongst them : 
but are we thence to infer that they are incapa- 
ble of it ? The contumely with which they have 
been regarded, the want of stimulus arising from 
their possessing no prospect of sharing in the ho- 
nours of high offices, their exclusion from the 
family circles of the whites ; these circumstances 
sufficiently account for their depression, especial- 
ly when weighed in connexion with their imper- 
fect education. But it would be unfair to sup- 
pose that under more favourable circumstances, 
the development of their faculties would never 
be accompanied by a correspondent elevation of 
soul. I have read several accounts of the beha- 
viour of negroes in times of trial and at the hour 
of death, fully proving that they were sustained 
by the loftiness of their feelings. An instance 
was also mentioned to me by a gentleman of 
Charleston, into whose company I fell when in 
Long Island. He told me that amongst the ne- 
groes condemned to death for the projected in- 
surrection in that city, there was one whom he 
had bought many years before from an African 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



465 



slave ship, but whom he had sold to another man. 
This negro prior to his execution, was visited in 
prison by his master, who desired him to men- 
tion how he could think of joining in a plot 
which might have proved fatal to a master who 
had used him kindly, and in particular to state 
what induced him to join in it at all, since his 
situation was an easy one. The negro looking 
firmly at him, made this energetic reply : " you 
were my master, and I wished for liberty". He 
was then requested to communicate all that he 
knew of the ramifications of the plot, but he re- 
fused to give any particulars, and turning to his 
fellow prisoners said, " Tell them nothing. Die 
as you will see me die, with firmness, and with- 
out letting them know any thing about it". He 
continued unwavering to the last. This man's 
conduct, if he had been a Greek condemned 
to death by Turks, would have been lauded as 
heroic ; but because he was a negro condemned 
to death by Americans, he must forsooth be 
branded as obstinate and cruel ! From this re- 
lation, and from others of a similar nature, as 
well as from the numerous cases I heard of no- 
ble conduct in other negroes under very differ- 
ent circumstances, I conclude that they only re- 
quire to have justice rendered them, to become 
ornamental as well as useful to their country. If 

H H 



466 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



a native born African who had been subjected 
to American slavery, could manifest the spirit 
of an old Roman when in the prospect of imme- 
diate death, surely it would be illogical to con- 
clude, that persons from the same stock, natives 
of America, and possessing the rights and intel- 
ligence of freemen, are physically incapable of 
rising to an equality with the descendants of Eu- 
ropeans ; to whom in the remaining remarks on 
the national character I shall confine myself ex- 
clusively. 

The first distinguishing trait that I shall notice 
is that of sociability, a trait which fails not at 
once to strike an Englishman, from its being so- 
different to that reserved air which is said to be 
gentilitious to England. A person when travel- 
ling in America, may at once begin to converse 
with his fellow passengers without fear of offend- 
ing by the familiarity. If his address be mild 
and respectful, he will find no cold repulse, no 
haughtiness to bid him stand aloof ; and if he 
continue to demean himself properly, he will be 
treated as a brother. The Americans, aware that 
in this respect they differ from the English, attri- 
bute the difference to their republican institu- 
tions. I rather suppose that the necessity of mu- 
tual kindness, which must have been felt by the 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



46?' 



primitive colonists, was the origin of this agree- 
able trait in their character. When once estab- 
lished, it was not likely to become extinct, so 
long as no great inequality of wealth prevailed 
in the country. Whatever influence therefore, 
republicanism may have had in preserving equa- 
lity amongst them, I cannot admit it to be the 
proximate cause of their sociability. How in- 
deed should it be, when the French under a mo- 
narchy have nearly as much of it, and have been 
celebrated for centuries on that very account ? 
The want of sociability in England is ascribed 
by Goldsmith to the political freedom enjoyed 
by the inhabitants, a deduction at variance with 
that of the Americans. After describing the 
blessings resulting from freedom, he thus pro- 
ceeds : 

" Thine, freedom, thine, the blessings pictured here, 
Thine are those charms that dazzle and endear ; 
Too blest indeed, were such without alloy, 
But fostered e'en by freedom ills annoy ; 
That independence Britons prize too high, 
Keeps man from man, and breaks the social tie ; 
The self-dependent lordlings stand alone, 
All claims that bind and sweeten life unknown ; 
Here by the bonds of nature feebly held, 
Minds combat minds, repelling and repelled : 
Ferments arise, imprisoned factions roar, 
Repressed ambition struggles round her shore, 



H H 2 



468 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



Till over-wrought, the general system feels 
Its motion stop, or phrensy fire the wheels^*, 

^IiI^i}fXXS^I ch) I vY'lf 0.003 3f!l *io 8. jidiifl Is*I9IX9Tt 

I certainly think that Goldsmith in this pas- 
sage is rather more poetical than philosophical, 
yet I shall not now stop to attempt to give a so- 
lution of a more probable nature ; but as the 
difference in sociability between the two coun- 
tries is very considerable, I shall be excused for 
dwelling on the subject a little longer. 

The English gentry when travelling by the 
public vehicles, too often assume an air of distance 
to their fellow passengers, and rarely indeed 
adopt a pleasant familiarity with those who ap- 
pear to be much below them in rank. I was 
once in a steam-boat on the Thames when there 
was a large number of passengers, the Vice-chan- 
cellor being one ; yet with the exception of one 
who was his companion, and another who had 
some acquaintance with him, he did not deign 
to converse with any of us, though some of the 
passengers appeared very genteel, and had their 
carriages on deck. As the Vice-chancellor rose 
from a low station in life, he might think that if 
he adopted a familiar deportment, some would 
be ungracious enough not to show him that re- 
spect which is due to the occupant of his office ; 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



4G9 



but a better apology may be found for him, by 
considering that he was not deviating from the 
general habits of the country. Yet familiarity in 
mixed society when it does not descend to buf- 
foonery, but is supported by becoming self-re- 
spect, is not the cause of contemptuous or disre- 
spectful behaviour on the part of others, as I saw 
abundantly in America. The Chief Justice of the 
United States was on board a steam boat in James 
river in Virginia when I was there, and manifested 
that easy familiarity which gave facility to inter- 
course with him, with that attention to decorum 
which prevented any, if so disposed, from un- 
duly encroaching on his good nature. More at- 
tention was shown to him than to any other per- 
son on board. 

When a man stands aloof from his fellow men, 
he loses the opportunity of diffusing benevolent 
and joyous feelings, and so contributing to the 
general happiness, besides the chance of rectify- 
ing either his own opinions or those of others. I 
was witness to the advantages conferred by Ame- 
rican sociability in the latter particular, when 
in the public room of a tavern in one of the vil- 
lages in the midland part of New York. It occur- 
red in a conversation between a judge of one of 
the county courts and a man whom I supposed to 



470 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



be a petty trader. This man seemed to think 
that political liberty should be unbounded. The 
judge explained to him the distinction between 
liberty in the state of nature and that in the so- 
cial compact, endeavouring to convince him of 
the benefits gained by the limitations imposed by 
law and government. I could not help think- 
ing, as I listened to this conversation, that the 
advantages of such a free interchange of senti- 
ments between persons of different ranks, and 
between the learned and the ignorant, must be 
great to any community, Where the ingre- 
dients of society are kept as distinct as heteroge- 
ous bodies, there can never be that cordial sym- 
pathy which is the best bond of union. 

It maybe inferred from what I have stated, that 
pride is scarcely an ingredient in the American 
character: I believe that scarcely any vice is more 
alien. There is notwithstanding, a kindred feel- 
ing prevalent amongst the natives of the south- 
ern States. I allude to that irritability which 
they manifest at any supposed imputative ex- 
pression, and which so often leads them into the 
diabolical practice of duelling. This fault ori- 
ginates, as I suppose, in their being accustomed 
from early life to domineer over the slaves, thus 
acquiring notions of superiority, which are pro- 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



471 



ductive of an impatience at a supposed slight, 
or mark of contempt, beyond what is ordinarily 
displayed by the natives of the free States. The 
strongest instance of this irritable disposition that 
came under my notice, was in the President's 
private secretary, with whom I had considerable 
conversation. Some casual expressions of mine 
which were perfectly unexceptionable, and 
which a New Englander would not have suffer- 
ed to discompose him for a moment, instantly 
excited the wrath of this Virginian to such a de- 
gree, that I could scarcely refrain from laugh- 
ing. I witnessed several similar proofs of the 
proneness of the natives of the southern States 
to give way to irascible feelings, yet they were 
quite as sociable in their general deportment as 
their northern neighbours. The delightful qua- 
lity of sociability belongs to them all, producing 
a harmony as beneficial to society at large, as a 
reciprocity of affection between parents and 
children to a private family. 

Much however as I admire the sociability of 
the Americans, and their freedom from that 
haughtiness which is too perceptible in England, 
I cannot approve of their want of dignity in the 
discharge of their public duties. There is no 
reason to suppose that familiarity in private and 



472 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



dignity in public are incompatible qualities ; but 
it is evident that very few amongst the Ameri- 
cans unite the two. In the courts of justice for 
example, where, if any where, dignity ought to 
be preserved, the want of it is often conspicu- 
ous. Counsellors examine and cross-examine 
witnesses without rising from their seats, and 
even while lounging as if they were at a public 
tavern. I noticed a counsellor in the court room 
of the City Hall in New York, sitting on a chair 
which he balanced on its hind legs in the true 
style of independence, while he was engaged in 
a cross-examination. Where so little respect is 
shown to the judge as is implied by this behavi- 
our, we must not expect to find in all cases, that 
dignity on the bench which so much tends to 
render justice respectable and respected. The 
judge of the Supreme Court of Massachusetts 
was particularly deficient in this respect, though 
it is a point to which the members of the judi- 
ciary ought to be particularly attentive, as with 
the exception of the Supreme Court of the United 
States, and as I was told, the Courts in South 
Carolina, no forensic habiliments are used by 
them. The proceedings of the courts and of 
all public bodies are indeed generally very or- 
derly ; but the only really dignified bodies that 
I saw, were the Senate of Congress, and the Su- 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



4?3 



preme Court of the United States. One of the 
judges of the Court however, degraded the dig- 
nity of his station during the time I was in Ame- 
rica, by maintaining a controversy in the news- 
papers on some parts of his own conduct. In 
one of his letters he expressed himself in an 
unguarded manner quite derogatory to a judicial 
character, and concluded by informing his op- 
ponent, that he had instituted legal proceed- 
ings against him. It is passing strange, that a 
judge who thought fit to appeal to the law in 
vindication of himself from a criminatory charge, 
should so far forget himself as to become a 
newspaper disputant. It is a proof of that 
general want of dignity which I have been stat- 
ing as so apparent. The House of Representa- 
tives is superior to the House of Commons in 
several respects, but it is, like that body, not 
sufficiently dignified on ordinary occasions. The 
most unpleasant proof however, of this want of 
dignity, was exhibited in the deportment of the 
persons in whose company I visited the Phila- 
delphian Jail, they suffering the prisoners to ad- 
dress them with as much familiarity as if they 
were not convicts. This was carrying good na- 
ture beyond the bounds of propriety, as a prison 
should be a place where the shame of degrada- 
tion may be felt, lest its terrors should lose their 



474 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



force. Neither republicanism nor common 
sense can justify the making of prisoners as 
independent in their behaviour as those who 
stand unconvicted. 

The hospitality of the Americans is not shown 
in a cold or niggardly manner, but in so grati- 
fying a way that an Englishman might almost 
forget his absence from his native land, if the 
extraordinary kindness did not remind him, that 
it is more pleasing than his vernacular hospi- 
tality. 

If the poorer class in America are less po- 
lished than the same class in France and some 
other countries, they are at least generally civil 
when civilly treated. The educated class have 
so much politeness diffused among them, that I 
believe few countries, if any, can exhibit a fairer 
portion of persons of agreeable manners. They 
have not, it is true, much of that suppleness and 
constant profession of good offices, which Ches- 
terfield and his disciples make an indispensable 
requisite in politeness ; but in that which is the 
real essence of politeness, namely, the disposi- 
tion which seeks not simply to avoid what is dis- 
agreeable to others, but to captivate them by 
suavity, and by attention to their wishes, I think 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



476- 



th ey may challenge comparison with any coun- 
try in Europe. Their introductory address sel- 
dom raises expectation high, being rather too 
indifferent, but their subsequent behaviour raises 
esteem and affection. The feeling produced on 
the mind is analogous to that on the body occa- 
sioned by immersion in a cold spring bath, first 
causing a chill and then a glow. Still it would 
be wrong to conceal that apathy is a striking 
constituent, not only in their behaviour but in 
their feelings. No ebullition takes place in their 
public meetings ; no hurrying, enthusiastic con- 
gratulations in their private ones. I should be 
inclined to ascribe their calmness to a sense of 
decorum and good breeding, were it not that 
their general deportment evinces that they prac- 
tise very little reserve. As far as they really 
feel, they plainly testify. They resemble the 
lion in not being easily pleased or provoked, but 
showing strongly gratitude or anger when once 
the feelings are effectually roused. This cha- 
racter however, applies principally to the natives 
of the midland and northern States, those of the 
southern being less phlegmatic. A New York 
citizen who was a fellow passenger with me to 
America, gave during the voyage such a proof of 
phlegm, as appeared to me most extraordinary. 
During a tempest one night, there was so ter- 



476 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



rific a crash, that he supposed, as he told me the 
following morning, that the mainmast had gone 
overboard. I asked him how under such an im- 
pression he could possibly keep in his birth ; to 
which he answered, that he thought that if he 
must perish, it was best for him to be ignorant 
of the exact time of his approaching death, as 
he should then die as easily as if he were falling 
asleep. If a Marylander or a Virginian did not 
wish to be cognitive of this particular, he would 
at any rate be willing to see if there were no 
possibility of preserving life. I do not mean to im- 
ply by this anecdote, that indifference to the ex- 
tent stated is at all common. I only instance it as 
one amongst many proofs of the general apathy. 

Their patriotism is warm, but not properly 
moderated by reflection. Their national vanity 
is ridiculous, and gives birth to a self-sufficiency 
which is sometimes unpleasing. They think 
themselves as a people qualified for every thing, 
and inferior to no other nation either in the arts 
of war or peace. Such of them as have seen 
other countries will subtract a little from the 
current opinions, but they are liable to be con- 
demned in consequence as unpatriotic. 

Another disagreeable and indeed bad trait in 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



477 



their character, is their jealousy of resident fo- 
reigners. Nothing can be kinder than their 
treatment of foreign travellers ; but let a fo- 
reigner settle permanently amongst them and 
become prosperous, and he is then to be marked 
out for suspicion and almost hatred. I heard 
so many complaints of this kind from foreigners 
of respectability in the principal cities, that I 
was compelled to give credence to them. 

In their political opinions they are too bigoted; 
and in general in whatever concerns their coun- 
try, they are not sufficiently tolerant of the dis- 
sentient opinions of foreigners. I asked a Portu- 
guese whom I met in New York, who had been 
nine months resident in the United States, and 
who, prior to his settlement in the country, had 
resided for three years in England, if he noticed 
any particular difference between the two coun- 
tries. He said that he found one remarkable 
difference ; that whereas he could say almost any 
thing in England, in the language of censure of 
what he did not like, without giving offence by 
so doing, in America if he used the same li- 
berty, he was condemned for his illiberality, and 
sometimes almost quarrelled with. During the 
late war between the two countries, the re- 
straints imposed on naturalized Englishmen, were 



478 NATIONAL CHARACTER* 

similar to those established in France amongst 
the natives by the jealous tyranny of Napoleon ; 
that being effected in America by the intolerance 
of the people, which was done in France by the 
system of government. 

Here it is proper to notice as an exemplifica- 
tion of this intolerant disposition, as well as of 
the self-sufficiency and vanity of the people, that 
I was several times taxed with mistatement, and 
censured for manifesting a willingness to decry 
America, by mentioning that the events of the 
war excited comparatively little interest in Eng- 
land. The Americans were so inflated with their 
successes by sea and land, that they supposed 
that other nations thought as much of their bra- 
very as they themselves. Hence the person who 
ventures to insinuate that the war was contem- 
plated in Europe with unusual indifference, is to 
be almost hooted from company as unpolite. 
When I was at Harrisburg, the late war became 
a topic of conversation one day after dinner at 
the tavern where I stopped. How I might have 
fared on this occasion amongst the Pennsylva- 
nian members of Assembly I cannot tell, except 
that from my experience of their gentlemanly 
behaviour, I am aware that they would have been 
moderate ; but it so happened, that after I had 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



479 



surprised them by letting them know, that thou- 
sands of persons in England had scarcely ever 
heard of the war, or if they had, had forgotten 
it, a gentleman present who was one of their own 
body, told them that he could confirm my re- 
mark by what he himself had witnessed in Eng- 
land at the time. Few persons, he said, seemed to 
trouble themselves about it, and except amongst 
merchants whose interests were immediately af- 
fected, he seldom heard it mentioned. This ac- 
count settled the matter, and the subject drop- 
ped. But for the information of such of my 
countrymen as may hereafter visit America, I 
will just add, that it may be expedient for them 
to acquaint themselves with the leading events of 
the war, lest they should expose their ignorance 
and subject themselves in consequence to pity or 
contempt. I at first found my ignorance very 
inconvenient ; for when I was asked my opinion 
of this or that engagement, I was often obliged 
to confess that I was ignorant of its result, and 
thus lose the benefit of the conversation. After 
I had been a few weeks in the country, I read a 
history of the war in order to enable myself to 
meet the remarks of the natives ; for though 
my previous studies had in degree qualified me 
to travel amongst them with advantage, I was 
sadly deficient in information relative to the war. 



480 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



The defeat of the English troops at New Orleans 
was as much unknown to me, to my shame be it 
spoken, as if it had never occurred. Since my 
return, I have found scholars and politicians as 
ignorant as myself. The Americans, who seem 
to believe that the fame of their achievements is 
commensurate to that of the knowledge of their 
name, may think that I am actuated by unworthy 
motives in thus writing. Let the general scope 
of my book be my defence. 

As it respects morals, they are, when com- 
pared with other countries, entitled to rank high, 
for though some vices are more prevalent with 
them than with Europeans in general, yet I be- 
lieve few countries or provinces in Europe, have 
a loftier sense of morality diffused amongst the 
women of the most influence. This moral feel- 
ing is confirmed by the general respect in which 
religion is held by the people at large. The re- 
ligion itself is often blended with fanaticism ; but 
I have yet to learn that fanaticism, injurious as 
it is, is worse than superstition, from which they 
are freer than perhaps any other people. To 
prevent any mistake on this point, I shall add, 
that I regard fanaticism as the result of religious 
zeal operating on a mind imperfectly enlight- 
ened, but of warm imagination - 7 and superstition, 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



as the adherence to a belief in something con- 
trary to nature and experience, without courage 
to examine its reasonableness, or resolution to 
renounce it when its folly is manifest. Fanati- 
cism leads into many extravagances as well as 
superstition, and may sometimes give birth to it, 
but it seldom keeps the mind in a complete state 
of stagnation ; whereas superstition when stand- 
ing alone, benumbs the mental faculties, and 
thwarts the spread of light and knowledge. 

The Americans, so far from yielding to su- 
perstition and ignorance, are generally emulous 
of other nations in all that relates to the in- 
struction of the poor in useful knowledge. In- 
deed they excel most except the Scotch, as I 
found that geography and some of the higher 
branches of arithmetic were taught in the Lan- 
castrian schools ; an example that ought to be 
followed in all the similar establishments in Eng- 
land ; but which alas ! such is the narrow mind- 
edness of many of the established clergy, is far 
from being the case ; they being apparently as 
fearful of the labouring poor becoming well in- 
formed, as the Catholics of the circulation of 
the Bible. The Americans from their more li- 
beral policy are becoming increasingly an intel- 
ligent people. Though less of academic learn- 

1 1 



t 



482 NATIONAL CHARACTER. 

ing is diffused among the upper class than is the 
case in some other countries, they have a num- 
ber of men whose literary reputation is deserv- 
edly high, and some whose attainments would 
be sufficient to ensure them distinction in any 
part of the civilized world. In mechanical ge- 
nius they are probably equal to any other peo- 
ple, and superior to most. 

Notwithstanding their intelligence they excel 
not in conversation, though they are remarkably 
domestic ; but then their conversation is so de- 
corous and refined, that its deficiency in other 
respects is the more excusable. Concerning one 
colloquial fault with which they have often been 
accused, namely, that of impertinent inquisitive- 
ness, I have to remark, that it applies principally 
and almost entirely to the lower and middling 
classes in remote situations and small villages. I 
met with only two persons of the upper class 
whose enquiries respecting myself were trouble- 
some or offensive, and one of these was a person 
whom I judged to have mixed very little in so- 
ciety. I met him at a tavern at Schenectady ; 
and to show how much his inquisitiveness was 
disapproved by others, I must add, that as soon 
as he had left the room, another gentleman, who 
was the surveyor I mentioned in a former chap- 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 483 

ter, apologised for his rudeness, and hoped I 
should not judge of the citizens generally by 
him ; a remark elicited from my having stated 
that I had been a short time only in the country. 
Small farmers, traders and mechanics in remote 
situations, are sometimes of exceedingly prying 
dispositions. I used on some occasions to make 
evasive answers, to testify my dislike at being 
subjected to a long concatenation of queries re- 
lative to private matters ; but I found it gene- 
rally best to satisfy them to a reasonable extent. 
But though I acquit the Americans generally of 
unpleasant inquisitiveness, I am aware that they 
are very fond of learning particulars respect- 
ing the private affairs of those with whom they 
come in contact. Their sense of politeness in- 
duces them to abstain from direct enquiries of a 
party, but they nevertheless feel all the curiosity 
of the inquisitive, and are eager to obtain inci- 
dental information to satisfy their craving appe- 
tite. Remaining for several days at Norfolk, 
there was considerable enquiry in the town about 
me. My landlady told me that numbers wished 
to know who I was, and where I came from. 
This was also the case at Fredericsburg, as I 
learnt from a person who was quartered at the 
tavern where I was, several persons having ask- 
ed him if he knew what State I was from, and 
i i 2 



484 NATIONAL CHARACTER. 

what business brought me to the town. I sup- 
pose that this prying disposition may be attri- 
buted to a want of taste for literature and the 
fine arts; for the mind having few things of 
deep interest to fix on, small talk is resorted to 
as a succedaneum. 

Besides a want of taste for literature and the 
fine arts, a want of it is obvious in various other 
particulars. There are unquestionably some in- 
dividuals of refined taste, but I believe that their 
number is very limited. The want of taste is 
often conspicuous in first rate houses, in which 
we sometimes see splendid furniture, while the 
glass in the windows is so green and rough as to 
occasion an unpleasant discrepancy. The very 
few ornamental gardens is another proof of this 
want of taste, which becomes still more apparent 
from the circumstance of landscape gardening 
being totally unknown. Is not the extravagant 
praise lavished on the beauty of Philadelphia 
another proof? I think it is, especially when we 
consider that nearly all the rising towns are on 
the same plan, and that the additions hereafter 
to be made to New York and Baltimore are to 
be correspondent. If a proper taste were in- 
fused into the people, they would not all adopt 
one model, since whatever beauty there may be 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



485 



in it, others may surely be designed which shall 
also be pleasing to a critical eye, as fruits of dif- 
ferent flavour are grateful to the palate. Wash- 
ington was planned by a Frenchman ; a circum- 
stance favourable to the beauty of that city, as 
he took care to have the quadrangles broken by 
a few diagonal streets. The genius of an Ame- 
rican would not have carried his ideas beyond 
right angles. If no deviation be made in the 
plan of the new cities, America will become in 
the course of time, as formal and uninteresting a 
country, in whatever relates not to natural sce- 
nery, as the fancy of an old Dutchman could 
make it. One thing in New York which not a 
little tickled me, I must not leave unnoticed. 
The emblem of justice on the City Hall is a fi- 
gure of Astrasa with a steel-yard in her hand ! 
The change from the balances to the steel-yard 
is about as consonant to propriety, as would be 
the placing of a full-bottomed wig on the head of 
a statue of Apollo. There are other things also 
indicative of a want of taste. In the arrangement 
of the dishes on table, I was often struck with it, 
not that I think it necessary for the Americans 
to conform to the French, English, or any other 
national standard, taste being influenced by ex* 
traneous circumstances, and being after all very 



486 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



arbitrary; but because when dishes which cannot 
be taken together, are placed side by side, the 
incongruity is apparent to all. But though a 
want of taste is conspicuous in so many parti- 
culars, and which are quite enough to satisfy 
me as to the general state of the country in 
that respect, the opposite side of the case must 
not be lost sight of. In dress, probably no 
women in the world are more really tasteful 
than the American. Without tawdriness they 
are gay ; without formality they are neat. Their 
agreeable manners seem to be? much regulated 
by taste, every thing approaching to gross- 
ness or rudeness being avoided. Hence it is, 
that though they are very generally deficient in 
dental and complexional beauty, they are so fas- 
cinating as to be admired by all foreigners. The 
men, engaged as most of them are in the active 
pursuits of life, have less taste than the other 
sex ; yet such of them as devote themselves to 
literary pursuits manifest no small portion of it, 
as is evident in their principal literary periodical, 
in which numerous articles have appeared written 
with a chastity and polish worthy the best pe- 
riods of English literature. From this it must 
not be understood however, that a taste for li- 
terature is extensively diffused, but that those 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



487 



who cultivate literature, have refined their taste 
to a degree at least equal to the correspondent 
class in other countries. 

irifijjjVnnin os ai suousictzitoD #1 3$gf>J to 3(jr$wi 
Allied to the general want of taste is the want 
of exactness in the domestic and other common 
transactions of life. In walking through a city 
at noon-day, I have often noticed numbers of 
the window-shutters left unfastened and other 
matters of a similar kind, as if they thought with 
Helvetius, that an attention to little things im- 
plied an ignorance of important ones, an opi- 
nion which that philosopher would not have pro- 
mulged if he had had a proper acquaintance 
with human nature ; for who knows not that the 
uneducated are generally the most careless? 
This want of exactness is obvious in the deport- 
ment of female servants, whom I have seen, when 
not actually engaged in waiting on the company, 
leaning on their elbows near the door or win- 
dow. Now it is evident that their mistresses 
would teach them to adopt a more becoming 
attitude, if they themselves did not share in the 
prevalent carelessness. I am inclined to ascribe 
the custom of female servants not wearing caps 
to the same disposition. What can be said in 
excuse for their mistresses, who might surely 
persuade them to adopt a dress less disgusting 



488 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



than that of heads of hair loose and dirty 
like mops? After they have finished their work, 
they are it is true sufficiently neat ; but how is 
it possible for them to keep their hair in order 
without caps when engaged in it? I suppose 
however, that such an attempt at innovation, 
would be viewed as an encroachment on that 
natural liberty, respecting which they are so 
sensitive as to refuse in many cases to acknow- 
ledge themselves servants, thinking that appel- 
lation to be fit only for negroes. 

The celebration of the anniversary of the In- 
dependence is general throughout the country. 
I witnessed it at New York, and as illustrative of 
the national character, especially in the point 
under consideration, I shall give some particu- 
lars of it. On the preceding evening, booths 
were erected in Broadway and round the City 
Hall, where whiskey and other stimulants were 
vended to the populace. The following morn- 
ing, the militia paraded through the streets, 
forming with the firemen, carmen and others of 
like occupations a motley group, reminding one 
• of a harlequin's jacket. The dress of the sol- 
diers, though military, was not uniform. Some 
had white cravats, some black, some none at all ; 
some were in boots, some in shoes. As the pro- 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



489 



cession moved along, I looked to see in what 
manner popular enthusiasm would show itself. 
So little of it however was apparent, that a spec- 
tator might almost have fancied, that the gazing 
crowds were viewing a funeral rather than a tri- 
umphal procession. The troops were marched 
into a church to hear an oration and a prayer. 
I have no belief in the sanctity of churches, but 
I could not but be displeased at the incongruity 
of blending religion with political celebrations 
in places appropriated to worship ; a measure 
which may in times of ferment breed fanaticism, 
the mind when agitated not being in a suitable 
state to approach the Divine Majesty. The 
troops after quitting the church, were arranged 
in a small field called the Park in front of the 
City Hall, where they fired what they called a 
feu-dejoie ; but such a one I never saw before, 
as each man fired his gun without the least re- 
gard to his next comrade's discharge, like boys 
at play with popguns. When the powder was 
all spent, the men gave three cheers and dis- 
persed ; but the cheering, like the firing, was ir- 
regular, and of course not very animating. Un- 
less the Americans learn to pay more minute at- 
tention to things in common life, than is at pre- 
sent observable, they are not very likely to ce*- 
lebrate their Independence in fine style, as a 



490 NATIONAL CHARACTER. 

carelessness in one respect begets carelessness 
in another. The present mode of celebration is 
injurious to public morals, as was evident from 
the numbers of persons lying on the following 
morning in the streets, unable to move from the 
effects of the night's debauch. But this I sup- 
pose they think excusable, when testifying their 
devotion to liberty. 

But with respect to the love of liberty, which 
passion the Americans suppose themselves to 
possess in an extraordinary degree, and on which 
they much value themselves, an equivocal cha- 
racter only can be given, since they are less an- 
xious to have liberty universal, than would be the 
case were that passion properly grounded in them. 
They are certainly the friends of free governments, 
that is of governments under popular control; 
and they take a lively interest in the struggles of 
the people of other countries to obtain their just 
rights ; but then, so regardless are they of the in- 
justice of slavery at home, that their policy is di- 
rected to extend and perpetuate it. This I give 
as the character of the majority. The people of the 
northern and middle States have indeed not only 
abolished slavery, but they testify their abhor- 
rence of it, and lament that a vestige of it should 
continue in the country, considering it as their 



# 

NATIONAL CHARACTER. 491 



greatest disgrace ; yet they are so inconsistent 
with their professed principles, as to refuse to 
give true and rational liberty to those amongst 
them whose skins are a tinge darker than their- 
own. They will not allow a man of negro ori- 
gin to be a magistrate, a legislator, or even a ju- 
ryman. They are willing to grant liberty and 
equality, where neither their imaginary interest 
nor their prejudice interferes to prevent it; but 
let either of those present itself, and they are re- 
luctant to make any concession ; in which they 
are on a level with the tyrants of antiquity, and 
the self-styled Holy Allies of our own time : for 
what but interest or prejudice prevents those 
high personages from acting conformably to just 
principles of liberty? 

The prejudice of the Americans against the 
coloured people, is not a whit more reasonable 
than that of the Hindoos against the sooders, or 
of the Germans against the Jews. They are filled 
with wonder and indignation when they hear of 
the contempt shown to the descendants of Abra- 
ham, and pity the want of light which produces 
that contempt ; and yet they cannot or do not 
perceive, that their contemptuous treatment of 
the blacks is just as irrational and unjustifiable. 
On the contrary, Irving in his Sketch Book con- 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



gratulates his countrymen on their freedom from 
prejudice, exclaiming ; " What have we to do 
with national prejudices?" implying by that in- 
terrogation, what I verily believe they assume for 
granted, that they are the only people whose 
minds are unbiassed by unworthy motives. Their 
prejudices are I admit not so numerous as those 
of some other nations, but in some particulars, 
those relative to the blacks and foreign countries 
for example, they are quite as strong. 

I have now I believe pointed out most of the 
prominent traits in the American character, hav- 
ing endeavoured to be impartial. I shall offer 
no apology to such of my countrymen as may be 
displeased at my having bestowed praise on a 
nation they contemn, since men who indulge a 
groundless hostile feeling to the Americans are 
beneath their notice ; nor shall I offer any apo- 
logy to the Americans for the severity of my lan- 
guage when writing of their errors, being con- 
vinced that they must despise an author who had 
not courage to avow his opinions, when they are 
dispassionately formed. Yet I should be sorry 
if the impression produced on the reader's mind 
was in the main unfavourable ; for though the 
American character is not without several con- 
siderable blemishes, it is on the whole deserving 



NATIONAL CHARACTER. 



493 



of esteem and admiration. In judging of it, let 
it be compared with that of any European peo- 
ple, and in particular, let an Englishman before 
indulging in censure, consider how much there 
is in the national character of his own country 
requiring amendment. A careful comparison 
may lead him to the conclusion, that the Ame- 
ricans are below few other nations and above se- 
veral, and ought therefore to be viewed as a peo- 
ple, with whom it is incumbent on us to cultivate 
a friendly relation. Let it be borne in mind, 
that no people approximate so nearly to our- 
selves as they, and that though they fall below 
us in some particulars, and excel us in others, 
they are yet in their mental bias, neither French 
nor Spanish, but English. They are to be con- 
sidered, not as a satellite shining with a borrowed 
lustre, but as a fixed star so like another fixed 
star, that careless observers would be likely to 
see but little difference between them ; just as a 
man is often taken for his brother by strangers, 
though persons intimate with either are sensible 
that the resemblance is not perfect. 



CHAPTER XXXIII. 

CONCLUSION. 

Since my return to England, I have been so fre- 
quently asked my opinion on the policy of emi- 
grating to the United States, that I think I shall 
be rendering an acceptable service to many, by 
giving it here. Emigration then, should rarely 
be ventured on, by persons capable of obtaining 
a comfortable livelihood at home. The uncer- 
tainty of success in a foreign land is so great, 
the prospect of accumulating considerable pro- 
perty is so small, and the difficulties under al- 
most any circumstance are so disheartening, that 
a man should pause before he ventures to run 
the risque of disappointment and ruin. A mer- 
chant with previously formed connexions might 
probably do well ; the same may be said of hard- 
working farmers possessing a small capital ; but 
artisans, mechanics, clerks, traders and profes- 
sional men, are likely, if they venture to cross 
the Atlantic, to regret having left Old England. 
There are two classes only who could not fail to 
improve their condition ; but they are often with- 
out the means of defraying the expense of the 



CONCLUSION. 49^ 



voyage : I allude to labourers and domestic ser- 
vants. The condition of these however, is not 
so greatly superior to that of the same descrip- 
tion of persons in England, as to offer induce- 
ments to all. Such as have an established repu- 
tation for skill, activity and other good qualities, 
will do well to remain at home ; such as have a 
character to gain, may transport themselves to 
America with a full conviction, that by indus- 
try, attention and honesty, they will be comfort- 
able and independent. But it is proper for me 
to add, that several labourers told me they would 
gladly return to their native land, if they pos- 
sessed the means of returning. 

Several things render America disagreeable to 
an English emigrant, let his station be what it 
may, one of which is the climate. We complain 
in England of the humidity of our atmosphere, 
and of the frequent changes it undergoes ; but 
troublesome as are the drippings and variations, 
they are not so trying to the frame as the sud- 
den, great changes which take place in America. 
The thermometer will sometimes rise or fall forty 
degrees in a few hours. But this is not the worst. 
The winter's cold and the summer's heat are so 
much in extremes, that neither season is agree- 
able. The winter may indeed be borne without 



496 



CONCLUSION. 



dissatisfaction, by those who, like me, are fond 
of cold, as the air is generally dry. But as to 
the summer, when nature is as it were panting 
for breath, the earth arid, trees and plants droop- 
ing from the drought, musquittoes tormenting 
by night as well as by day, and when the streets 
of a city are sweltry like an oven, — who is to 
bear it patiently ? Not even the abundance of 
peaches and water-melons, grateful as they are 
to the palate, reconcile an Englishman to it. He„ 
sighs, and wishes himself once more in the mild, 
genial region he has left. The only pleasant sea- 
son is the autumn, which is very short, for the 
spring is alternately hot and cold, till heat gains 
the ascendancy. 

Besides the climate, the circumstance of be- 
ing always regarded as an alien, abates from the 
comfort of a permanent residence. True it is, 
that a person after five years' residence may be- 
come naturalized ; but what signifies the sanction 
of law so long as in effect it is disregarded ? An 
Englishman, to be sure, is not treated contempt- 
uously like a negro. He may associate on equal 
terms with his neighbours, and obtain a portion 
of their confidence ; but let him offer himself 
a candidate for some vacant public post, or de- 
claim against the abuses of the government and 



CONCLUSION. 



497 



the violation of justice by the magistrates, and 
he may soon have reason to repent his temerity, 
and learn that the boasted land of liberty is not 
the land the most tolerant to foreigners. But of 
all who find America not to realize their expect- 
ations, none are likely to feel their disappointment 
so keenly, as those who have emigrated under 
the idea, that more happiness and liberty are to 
be found under the American than the English 
government. Such persons are often men of 
morose dispositions, unlikely to be contented 
anywhere. But the man of elastic spirit who 
endeavours to reconcile himself to his new situ- 
ation, and knows how to appreciate the blessings 
enjoyed by the people amongst whom his lot is 
cast, will find that notwithstanding the draw- 
backs from the comforts of a residence in Ame- 
rica, he has a home, which, next to his native 
home, is the most congenial to the feelings of 
a patriotic Englishman, and of course the best 
adapted to promote his happiness. 

There are two descriptions of persons who 
might visit the United States, and travel through 
them with advantage. The first are scientific 
characters, especially geologists and entomolo- 
gists, to whom a field so boundless is opened, that 
there would be no danger of their lamenting like 

K K 



498 



CONCLUSION, 



Alexander the want of more worlds to conquer. 
The others are the sons of our nobility and gen- 
try. Great as is the improvement derivable from 
a tour on the continent of Europe, it may be rea- 
sonably believed that one in America would to 
many be far more advantageous. They could 
not indeed in America be gratified with cabinets 
of paintings, sculptures and medals. But they 
would learn to see the difference between good 
and bad government ; good as it concerns the 
whites, bad in reference to the blacks. They 
would mark the evils of slavery both on the mas- 
ter and his servant. They would find that reli- 
gion needs not the support of the secular power. 
They would be compelled to admit that persons 
of whatever religious denomination, may be ad- 
mitted to an equality of civil rights without dan- 
ger to the public tranquillity or harmony. They 
would see that in proportion as trade is unfetter- 
ed by monopolies and other restrictions, its pros- 
perity is promoted. They would ascertain that 
property may be protected without penal enact- 
ments at variance with equity. They would be 
convinced that a large standing army in time of 
peace is unnecessary. They would learn many 
other truths no less useful, but of which too ma- 
ny of them are at present ignorant. For instance, 
they would learn that their own happiness, as 



CONCLUSION. 



499 



well as that of others, would be increased by 
their adopting a less reserved demeanour. Whilst 
learning these things, their friends need be un- 
der no apprehension of their acquiring disagree- 
able manners, as the Americans would take a 
pleasure, if not a pride, in showing hospitality and 
politeness to such characters ; politeness too, I 
say it with full conviction, which might tend to 
smooth the asperity so obvious in the English cha- 
racter. In the degree to which the examination 
of the beauties of nature operates to the refine- 
ment of the mind, no deficiency would be felt, 
as the picturesque and the grand are liberally, 
and in some districts lavishly spread. Young 
educated Englishmen therefore, could not fail to 
return to their native land after a tour in Ame- 
rica, without improvement both in mind and dis- 
position. 

I have made few comparisons between Ameri- 
ca and England, the reason for which is, that if I 
had indulged in them, I should often have appear- 
ed invidious ; accordingly so cautious have I 
been of unduly advancing England, that some 
may suppose that I have not a proper pride in 
the name of Englishman. To prevent any mis- 
take on this point, I think it right to add, that 
my patriotic feelings were strengthened by my 
k k 2 



500 



CONCLUSION. 



journey in America ; for when I compared the 
condition of the poor in the two countries, by 
considering the degradation of the blacks in the 
one, and of the occasional hardships of all the 
labourers in the other, I was led to the conclu- 
sion that England is the happier, the state of the 
poor being no bad criterion of national hap- 
piness, When I also surveyed the state of the 
middle and upper ranks, I was still more forci- 
bly impressed with the same conviction. Yes ; 
England is the country in which, with my pre- 
sent knowledge, I would rather have had my 
birth than any other. I am indeed sensible that 
many things in the laws and government are ad- 
verse to the enlightened state of the present age ; 
yet with all the grievances of which we may 
justly complain, we have in my opinion substan- 
tial grounds for joy and exultation. America, 
next to our own, is the land the most worthy of 
our esteem and affection. If it should ever hap- 
pen that the liberty of England should be de- 
stroyed by the continental despots, we should 
find in that country not only a secure asylum, but 
a people whose character assimilates so nearly 
with our own, that our lot would be vastly su- 
perior to that of men driven to countries, where 
a different language and opposite manners are 
established. I am putting an imaginary case ; 



CONCLUSION. 



501 



but though this country has little to fear a fo* 
reign conquest, it is by no means clear, that as- 
sistance to prevent it may never be required. 
Should such a period arrive, we may look to 
America with confidence that she would not be 
backward in her good offices. 

Meanwhile, the example of America ought 
not to be lost upon our statesmen ; indeed as it 
cannot be lost upon the country at large, it is the 
height of folly for them to disregard it. Our in- 
stitutions are too firmly fixed to be safely sudden- 
ly changed ; but as many of them must inevitably 
be changed at no distant period, either by law- 
less violence or legal enactment, the interest of 
the country requires, that such preparation for 
gradual changes be made as may render the for- 
mer unnecessary. It is obvious to the observers 
of the times, that public opinion is more in fa- 
vour of a reform of the unsound parts of our 
system of government, both in church and state, 
than was the case only a few years ago. In 
proportion to the increase of this feeling, the 
necessity of complying with it becomes addi- 
tionally manifest, as the safety-valve must have 
room to act, when the pressure of the steam is 
too high. It therefore behoves the executive 
authority, to encourage the prelation of virtue 



502 CONCLUSION. 

and talent, rather than of birth and interest. 
The approbation of the people at large, not that 
of a few families for the sake of parliamentary 
support, should now be the object of a British 
statesman. Supported by the popular voice, he 
might, as was formerly the case, give the law to 
continental Europe, and promote the cause of 
rational liberty. Unless such a course be pur- 
sued, this country, in the event of another re- 
volution in France, will be in the predicament 
of a man, who having relinquished considerable 
advantages for some supposed benefit, finds that 
he has been cheated and betrayed. Another 
crusade of thirty years against liberty is more 
than the people could or would bear. Hence the 
spirit of the age should be met by conciliation, 
to prevent a recurrence of past misery at home, 
and a disruption of society abroad ; for the ex- 
ample of this country is still influential on the 
continent. The inarch of improvement may 
be checked by power and bigotry for a time, 
but it can no more be finally impeded, than 
the intumescence of the sea could be controlled 
by the command of Canute. The monarchs of 
Europe and their ministers appear not to be so 
fully aware as was that prince, that kings are not 
omnipotent. They seem to think that reforma- 
tion in their respective governments may be pre- 



CONCLUSION. 



# 503 



vented, notwithstanding the diffusion of know- 
ledge which is now so extensive and increasing. 
They would be glad to veil from the eyes of their 
subjects the example of America in those points 
which render her the most estimable, though they 
might be willing that others in which she is cul- 
pable, should be generally known. But in all 
their struggles to preserve abuses, they can no 
more prevent the influence of America in what 
is really good from being felt, than America can 
avert the detestation of mankind, so long as she 
continues to support the slave trade, and uses 
no endeavours to extinguish slavery. Let us 
then hope that the present friendly feeling be- 
tween America and England, will induce each 
to emulate the other in the career of improve- 
ment, that so they may be more and more closely 
united, and that the efforts of the tyrants of 
other countries may be thwarted and overpower- 
ed. Then may we hope that a brighter day will 
dawn upon Europe; the harbinger of permanent 
tranquillity, freedom and happiness. 



THE END. 



G. Woodfall, Printer, 
Angel Court, Skinner Street, Loudon. 



* 



.1 



